AQW 46130/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 13/05/2026
Answered On Date: 11/06/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail how Artificial Intelligence is being used by, and within (i) their Department; and (ii) the arm's-length bodies sponsored by their Department.

Answer:

The Department and its arm's-length bodies make appropriate use of approved Artificial Intelligence tools to support productivity. These tools have been used to enhance the efficiency of drafting and refining briefing materials, streamlining routine word processing tasks, and assisting with research.

AI tools are not used to replace professional judgement, and any outputs generated are reviewed, refined and finalised by officials through established governance processes and ethical principles.

Any AI activity beyond standard productivity tools will be subject to formal approval processes, including data protection and security requirements, and managed through established governance and reporting arrangements.