Today marks an important milestone with the publication of Ireland’s new Digital & AI Strategy, Connecting Our People, Securing Our Future.
This strategy sets out a clear and confident ambition: to strengthen Ireland’s position as a global digital leader and AI hub – not just in terms of technology, but in terms of trust, talent and tangible impact for people.
An Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “We are at a pivotal moment in our digital transformation, with the rapid evolution of digital technologies and the transformative power of AI reshaping how we live, how we work, and how we interact as a society.
“‘Digital Ireland – Connecting our People, Securing our Future’ sets out how we will reinforce Ireland’s position as a digital leader and regulatory hub, strengthening our profile as a location for investment and a global hub for Applied AI.”
AI Ireland Founder Mark Kelly added: “This strategy is a strong signal that Ireland wants to lead in AI the right way. Not just faster tech, but better outcomes for people, public services and business. Trust, skills and real use of AI will decide if we win.”
Why this matters
Digital technologies and artificial intelligence are reshaping every part of our economy and society. The question is not whether we adapt, but how well we lead.
Ireland starts from a position of strength: a globally connected economy, a vibrant innovation ecosystem, strong EU engagement and a skilled workforce. This strategy builds on those foundations with 90 actions designed to ensure we remain competitive, secure and inclusive in the AI world.
Five clear ambitions
The strategy is built around five mutually reinforcing priorities:
1. Better public services through Digital and AI
The strategy will transform how people interact with the State – making services more accessible, efficient and user-centred. The ambition is that all key public services will be digital by 2030, with the vast majority accessed online.
2. Growing our digital economy and AI adoption
Ireland will strengthen its competitiveness as a global hub for digital and AI innovation. This includes supporting enterprise adoption of AI, backing sectoral champions, and ensuring all Irish businesses, both large and small, can harness AI responsibly and effectively.
3. Secure and resilient infrastructure
World-class digital infrastructure is essential to economic growth and national security. The strategy commits to continued investment in broadband, advanced computing capacity and cyber resilience.
4. Leading as a trusted regulatory hub in Europe
As a key location for global tech companies and EU digital oversight, Ireland plays a central role in implementing Europe’s digital framework. Ireland will continue to lead with credibility, expertise and balance, while ensuring innovation and regulation go hand in hand.
5. Empowering people and protecting citizens
Digital transformation must work for everyone. That means investing in cutting-edge digital skills, supporting lifelong learning, strengthening online safety, and ensuring that no one is left behind.
A strategy rooted in trust
At its heart, this strategy recognises that leadership in Digital and AI is not just about speed or scale; it is about trust.
Trust in how data is used.
Trust in how AI systems are deployed.
Trust in how the State protects children and vulnerable users online.
Trust that opportunity will be shared widely across society.
As Ireland prepares to play a leading role in shaping Europe’s digital future, this strategy positions us to lead not only as an innovation hub, but as a trusted one.
Looking ahead
The publication of this strategy is just the starting signal.
Delivering 90 actions across government, agencies, industry and education will require sustained collaboration and focus. But the direction is clear.
Ireland intends to connect our people, secure our future and lead with confidence in the age of Digital and AI.
You can download the full National Digital and AI Strategy 2030 here.
Call to Action
If you’d like to delve deeper into how these trends can reshape your organisation, we would be delighted to discuss them in more detail. Invite Mark Kelly, Founder of AI Ireland, to speak at your next team meeting, conference or strategy session. We can explore practical ways to harness AI responsibly, meet sustainability goals, and navigate the evolving consumer landscape. Let’s work together to ensure Ireland remains at the vanguard of innovation in 2026 – and beyond.
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