Kate Nicholl MLA, chair of the Assembly All-Party Group on AI, has welcomed the publication of the long-awaited draft artificial intelligence strategy and the opening of a public consultation.

The South Belfast MLA has been pressing for the strategy to be brought forward through Assembly questions, letters to Ministers and sustained advocacy.

Ms Nicholl said: "The publication of the draft strategy marks an important moment for Northern Ireland. We are in the process of reimagining the future of our economy and of our society, and AI will have a role in that transformation, but there must be a considered and inclusive public conversation about what exactly that role will be and how it will be managed. "As the global economy is undergoing significant transformation and AI is increasingly part of our lives, this consultation offers a crucial opportunity for that conversation. It is important that all of those who have views on AI share their perspectives or concerns.

"AI presents significant opportunities as well as risks – that must be managed and considered, which is why having an AI Strategy is so important. This document will provide an overarching framework and policy direction for the Executive and wider public sector, and I have no doubt that there will be considerable interest from academia, industry, employees, and people right across our society in terms of shaping the final iteration.

"A lot of collaborative work has already been undertaken to produce this draft, and it is now vital that the broadest and most diverse range of views are captured in the consultation to ensure we get this right.

"Whether you are an AI sceptic, an AI evangelist, or somewhere in between, this is your opportunity to make your views known and I would encourage everyone to have their say."