Consultation open:
The Executive Office is consulting on its draft Northern Ireland Artificial Intelligence Strategy, titled “Positive Use, Positive Inclusion, Positive Outcomes.” The draft strategy sets out a vision for the responsible and ethical adoption of AI across the public sector, developed with government, business and academia, and grounded in the ambition that AI can unlock significant opportunities to improve public services and support innovation across Northern Ireland.
The strategy is structured around eight key themes, including the AI landscape in Northern Ireland, AI principles, governance, infrastructure and data, skills and capability development, public sector transformation, and citizens, trust and engagement. Central to the document are eight principles for responsible AI: human oversight, accountability and redress, data governance, technical safety and security, fairness and transparency, sustainability, societal benefit, and training and literacy.
The draft strategy draws on a wide evidence base, including the Matrix report AI and the Future of Work in Northern Ireland, It also sets out six summary actions, spanning governance frameworks, human oversight structures, data protection, skills development, an integrated AI strategy for education, and citizen engagement initiatives such as a Citizens’ Panel.
The Executive Office is inviting views from members of the public, businesses, academic institutions, trade unions, public sector bodies, local government, community and voluntary organisations, and interested parties.