Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has chaired the first meeting of a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) Advisory Panel, established to help shape Northern Ireland’s AI future.
The Panel brings together experts from industry, academia and government to provide a co‑ordinated approach to addressing the economic challenges and opportunities presented by AI. Its initial focus will be on supporting delivery of recommendations from the Matrix report, AI and the Future of Work in Northern Ireland (matrixni.org/documents/ai-and-the-future-of-work-in-northern-ireland/?portfolioCats=162)
Minister Archibald said: “AI has the potential to transform our economy by helping to address long‑standing productivity challenges, create high‑value jobs and drive innovation across all sectors. I am also acutely aware of the challenges it presents, particularly in relation to skills, ethical governance and the need for appropriate infrastructure.
“By convening this Advisory Panel, we are ensuring we are well placed to seize the opportunities of AI in a responsible and inclusive way.”
The meeting marks an important step in delivering the Department for the Economy’s AI Strategic Direction (www.economy-ni.gov.uk/publications/ai-strategic-direction) which provides a framework for shaping policy, programmes and interventions to capture the AI opportunity. This work aligns with the Minister’s Economic Vision to boost productivity, support regional balance, create good jobs and contribute to decarbonisation.
The Minister added: “We have a strong base to realise the potential of AI, with established strengths in software, cyber, data and analytics, world‑class universities and colleges, and assets such as the Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre, which is already supporting businesses to understand and adopt AI.
“The Advisory Panel and the expertise it brings will be a vital asset as we build on these strengths while navigating a rapidly evolving technological landscape.”
Ahead of the meeting the Minister met with students taking part in an Assured Skills Academy in AI and Data with EY at Belfast Met. Assured Skills Academies provide pre-employment training helping individuals gain industry relevant accreditations and the skills necessary to compete for guaranteed job vacancies in priority sectors.
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