The Executive Office has launched an eight-week public consultation on its Draft Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy, unveiled by First Minister Michelle O’Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly.

Developed in partnership with government, industry and academia, the draft sets out a human-centred vision for responsible, ethical and fair deployment of AI across the public sector, aiming to ensure the technology delivers social benefit.

First Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “Artificial Intelligence is already shaping the world around us, and it has the potential to make a real difference in people’s lives. We must ensure it is used to improve public services and to support our workers, businesses and communities.

“With the opportunities that AI can bring, we also have a responsibility to make sure it is used in a way that is ethical, fair and centred on people. This draft strategy is about getting that balance right and about working together across government, industry and academia to build an approach that delivers positive outcomes for everyone here.

“We want to hear directly from people, communities and organisations so that this strategy is shaped by the experiences, concerns and ambitions of those who will be impacted by it most.”

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: “Developing digital and Artificial Intelligence capability across departments is a key commitment within our Programme for Government, so I am delighted to launch this draft strategy today.

“We know that AI and advanced digital technologies have the potential to transform how public services are designed and delivered, but we also know there are challenges. That is why we are committed to shaping a future where AI is applied consistently and responsibly across the public sector, and this draft strategy is the first step in that important journey. “I would encourage you to respond to this consultation as your views will help shape a final strategy that ensures we embrace the potential of AI in a safe and responsible way.”

Chief Scientific and Technology Adviser Professor Helen McCarthy said: "The draft AI strategy for Northern Ireland is the product of extensive co-creation across our quadruple helix of government, business, academia and citizens. At its core is a human-centred ethos which aims to augment human capabilities, not replace them, to preserve human agency and decision-making, and to uphold the values of integrity, transparency and inclusion.

“Our goal is to ensure that citizens can have confidence in the use of AI across the public sector. At the same time, the strategy offers a blueprint to support other sectors as they seek to grow their own AI capability. For that reason, training at all levels is a core principle, helping to ensure positive use for positive outcomes - for all.”

The draft is anchored in eight principles designed to guide safe and trustworthy use of AI:

- Human Oversight

- Accountability and Redress

- Data Governance

- Technical Safety and Security

- Fairness and Transparency

- Sustainability

- Societal Benefit

- Training and Literacy

The consultation is open for eight weeks and will close on 7 October 2026. The draft strategy and details on how to respond are available at: www.executiveoffice-ni.gov.uk/consultations/northern-irelands-draft-artificial-intelligence-strategy

Following the consultation and analysis of responses, a final strategy will be submitted to the Executive for agreement before publication. Media enquiries should be directed to The Executive Office Press Office at press.office@executiveoffice-ni.gov.uk.