Empowering Public Sector in the Age of AI

Artificial Intelligence is a rapidly reshaping how governments deliver services, make decisions and engage with citizens. For those working in the public sector, understanding the opportunities and challenges of AI is no longer optional – it's essential. This course will equip participants with the knowledge and practical insights needed to harness AI responsibly, improve efficiency and drive innovation across public services. Whether you are a policymaker, manager, analyst or council executive you will gain valuable tools to navigate the evolving landscape of AI and apply it effectively to your role.

All attendees will receive a full course pack to refer to and will have the benefit of learning from a trainer with a wealth of experience in this area.

Topics

Introduction

• What is AI and why it matters for the Irish Public Sector
• Global case study: AI in public service internationally
• Key Irish Initiatives

AI Policy & Ethics in an Irish Context

• Irelands National AI Strategy – Pillars and priorities
• AI and the EU AI Act – Implications for Irish Public Sector
• Public Trust – Transparency and accountability in AI systems
• Data Protection & GDPR – Where AI meets Irish Data Ethics

Legal & Governance Risks

• FOI and algorithmic decision-making
• Judicial review and administrative law challenges
• Procurement law – due diligence and “black box” risks
• Liability and accountability in AI-assisted decision-making

Real World Applications of AI in Ireland

• Current examples: Revenue, Social welfare chatbots
• Predictive analytics in transport & health
• Computer Vision in environmental monitoring
• Procurement of AI – Sourcing, bias testing, and vendor due diligence

Interactive Workshop – Breakout sessions

Getting AI Ready in Government

• Skills needed: from data literacy to AI ops
• Working with technologists and data scientists
• Low-risk AI pilots: how to start
• Open Data & collaboration across public bodies

Future Directions

• Generative AI in government communications & services
• AI & Climate Policy (smart grids, sustainability, environmental monitoring
• AI in justice & policing – innovation vs constitutional limits

Closing

• Three practical steps for Irish public bodies to take today

Who Should Attend?

This course will be highly beneficial to government leaders and policymakers, public sector executives and managers, policy analysts and advisors, IT & digital transformation leaders, data scientists, regulatory and compliance officers, academics and researchers to name just a few.

Certification

On completion of this one-day training course, you will receive your Certificate of Attendance. Please note certificates are issued at the close of the training session to participants on completion of the course.

This course may qualify for CPD points. Please check directly with your association or awarding body to see how many points they will award.

Cost

An ‘Early Bird’ discounted rate of €545 is currently available. This training course normal rate is €645. Places are limited and are allocated on a first come first served basis. PLEASE NOTE THE EARLY BIRD RATE CLOSES 3 WEEKS PRIOR TO COURSE DATE.

The course cost includes all course documentation and Certificate of Attendance.