Ireland - Digital and AI Strategy 2030

The National Digital & AI Strategy 2030 was launched in 2022 by the Irish Government. The Strategy sets the direction for how Ireland will harness digital tools and artificial intelligence to improve public services, boost innovation, and develop world-class digital skills across society. The strategy is built around five big ambitions: Apply, Grow, Invest, Lead, Empower. 

APPLY – A digital public service for all 

By 2030, Ireland aims to have 100% of key public services digitalised, with 90% available online. That means simpler processes, faster access, and more intuitive services designed around major “life events” like starting school, opening a business, or accessing healthcare.  

AI will play a growing role too, with new supports like: 

• An AI Advisory Unit for public bodies 
• AI training for all public servants 
• A national AI for Care strategy to transform healthcare 
• A new Government Digital Wallet offering secure digital identity and age verification 

GROW – A thriving, innovative digital economy 

Ireland wants to remain a global hub for digital business and become a leader in applied AI innovation. Key targets include: 

• A national AI Adoption Strategy for enterprises 
• AI Champions across sectors 
• A major expansion of CeADAR, Ireland’s applied AI centre 
• A new AI Regulatory Sandbox to help startups innovate safely 

The government also plans to host an International AI & Digital Summit during Ireland’s 2026 EU Presidency, positioning the country as a centre for ethical and cuttingedge AI. 

INVEST – Building future-proof digital infrastructure 

From gigabit broadband and nationwide 5G to new subsea cables and highperformance computing, Ireland is gearing up for the next generation of digital demands. Investments include: 

• Completion of the National Broadband Plan 
• The CASPIr supercomputer and an AI Factory Antenna for advanced computing 
• Strengthening cybersecurity and expanding quantum communications 

This ensures Ireland can continue to attract major tech investment while supporting research, innovation, and rural connectivity. 

LEAD – A trusted, agile digital regulatory hub 

Ireland already plays a major role in enforcing EU digital regulations, and the new strategy doubles down on this leadership. Plans include: 

• Establishing the AI Office of Ireland 
• Ensuring effective rollout of the EU AI Act 
• Streamlining digital regulation to reduce burdens on businesses 
• Strengthening coordination across Ireland’s digital regulators 

The goal is a regulatory environment that protects people while enabling innovation to flourish.  

EMPOWER – Digital skills, online safety & inclusion 

A truly digital society means ensuring everyone has the skills and confidence to take part. The strategy focuses heavily on digital inclusion from basic digital literacy to advanced AI skills. 

Key initiatives include: 

• A new National Skills Observatory to track emerging needs 
• A nationwide Digital & AI Skilling Campaign 
• AI and digital citizenship tools for schools 
• Stronger online safety protections, especially for young people 
• A national conversation to build public trust in AI 

By prioritising people, innovation, and responsible AI, Ireland is setting the stage for a digital decade that benefits society and strengthens its place as a European leader in digital excellence.