AQW 22049/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 06/02/2025
Answered On Date: 02/04/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the role that the Chief Scientific and Technology Adviser will have in the development of a regional strategy for Artificial Intelligence.

Answer:

We are working to establish an AI Unit within The Executive Office as part of Reform and Transformation as envisaged in the Programme for Government. This Unit will support public services adoption of AI technologies whilst ensuring they are used ethically and safely, and in a strategic way, addressing concerns around data protection, bias, and the environmental impact of AI. In addition, the AI Unit will ensure that Northern Ireland becomes a hub for AI research and innovation, attracting investment and fostering collaboration between industry, academia, and government.

To progress this goal, a Task & Finish (T&F) Group has been established to scope out the remit and requirements for the proposed AI Unit. The T&F Group is chaired by the Chief Scientific and Technology Adviser.

The group will bring together those from across departments, academia and industry, with expertise spanning data governance, AI ethics, digital transformation, real time use of data and public service delivery. A primary focus will be on identifying opportunities for leveraging AI to enhance decision-making, improve efficiency, and unlock value from public sector data assets.

This work will contribute to the development of a Regional Strategy for Research and Innovation.