Seminar Overview
This programme provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving role and use of artificial intelligence (AI) within the public sector, with a particular focus on governance, transparency, and Freedom of Information (FOI) obligations. It is designed to equip public sector professionals with the knowledge and practical insights required to responsibly adopt and use AI technologies while maintaining public trust and regulatory compliance.
It will begin by examining the regulatory and strategic landscape shaping the use of AI in the public service by providing an overview of the Guidelines for the Responsible Use of AI in the Public Service and will also discuss the recent publication of the government’s National Digital and AI Strategy in relation to the strategic objectives, priorities, and the broader vision for AI integration across public services.
It will outline both the opportunities and challenges of AI as a transformative tool to enhance service delivery while balancing key risks such as public trust, accountability, and transparency and provide practical guidance on how to be AI future-ready.
The second part of the seminar focuses on the intersection of AI and Freedom of Information, highlighting the implications of AI-generated records and automated decision-making for transparency and public accountability. It will examine how AI-generated content such as prompts, outputs, and automated decision-making processes (e.g. grants or social benefits)—may fall within the scope of FOI requests. It will also discuss relevant legislative updates under the 2024 EU AI Act.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand the regulatory and strategic frameworks governing AI use in the public sector, including the EU AI Act
- Analyse the implications of AI for transparency, accountability, and Freedom of Information obligations
- Assess risks and ethical considerations associated with AI-driven decision-making in public services
- Apply best practice principles for the responsible, secure, and effective implementation of AI, including appropriate human oversight
Intended Audience
This programme is designed for professionals across the Irish public service who are engaged in policy development, governance, service delivery, and regulatory compliance in an increasingly digital environment. It is particularly relevant to senior managers and decision makers leading AI and digital initiatives, FOI officers, Records Managers and Data Protection Officers.
All of our open programmes can also be run on an in-house basis. For more information, see our page on In-House Training.
Multiple Delegate Discount
Limited Places Available – book early to avoid disappointment.
- 3+ Delegates – 5% Discount
- 5+ Delegates – 10% Discount
- 10+ Delegates – 15% Discount
To avail of our multiple delegate discount for 3 or more delegates, you must email registrations@pai.ie with the name and details of all those you wish to book. All those you wish to book on must be booked at the same time.
For 1 or 2 attendees, manually enter in the number of tickets you wish to purchase below.
