Ireland’s parliamentary committee on artificial intelligence has set out 39 recommendations aimed at strengthening oversight of AI use in public services, warning that rapid technological change demands stronger safeguards, clearer accountability, and a more independent regulatory structure.
The findings were published in the second interim report of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Artificial Intelligence, following consultations with government departments, national agencies, and human rights organisations.
A central recommendation is the creation of a fully independent national AI authority. The committee argues that the proposed national AI office should not remain within the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, but instead be established as a standalone state agency with its own budget and dedicated technical expertise. Lawmakers say independence is essential to ensure effective oversight of both public and private sector AI systems.
The report also stresses that regulation must keep pace with the risks associated with artificial intelligence. It references international cases where failures in automated systems have caused significant harm, calling for stronger safeguards across areas such as equality, labour rights, children’s protection, and environmental impact. The committee says efficiency and economic benefits should not overshadow human rights considerations.
Another key proposal is the creation of a citizens’ assembly to support public engagement on AI policy and ethics. The committee believes wider public participation is necessary to ensure democratic input into decisions shaping the use of emerging technologies.
The report encourages Ireland to fully align with the EU Artificial Intelligence Act, stating it should be treated as a minimum standard rather than a ceiling for national regulation. It warns against any attempts to weaken the EU framework at domestic level.
The committee also calls for a mandatory public register requiring all government departments and agencies to disclose where AI systems are being used in public services. These disclosures would include details on benefits, risks, and any inequalities identified through deployment. It further recommends strict guidelines governing not only the use of AI but also its procurement across the public sector.
Former committee chair Malcolm Byrne said in the report that technology with potential to improve public services should be explored and tested, but only under strong safeguards designed to protect citizens. He added that the committee’s approach aims to balance innovation with risk management and position Ireland as a leader in responsible AI governance.
The report highlights ongoing challenges in improving public services and notes that AI will increasingly influence how those services are delivered. It also recommends advisory panels linked to the national AI office, involving young people, older people, and disabled communities to provide insight into potential harms and benefits.
Lawmakers pointed to international models such as Spain, where an independent AI authority has already been established, as an example for Ireland to consider. The committee is expected to continue publishing interim findings before issuing a final report once its work is completed, with the recommendations likely to be debated in both houses of parliament.
