Version 1, a leader in AI-driven transformation, and The Department of Social Protection (DSP), today announced a newly finalised partnership agreement that has the potential to drive major AI and digital innovation, aiming to significantly enhance service delivery for millions of citizens across Ireland and supported by newly awarded technical partnerships.
The programme positions DSP at the forefront of public sector modernisation, using advanced digital and automation tools to streamline internal processes and help staff deliver faster, more reliable services for citizens.
Following a successful outcome in the Department of Social Protection's public procurement process in 2025, Version 1 secured a place on its Technical Platform Development Framework. Building on this achievement, the organisation has now been awarded two significant contracts under the framework: one to provide specialist technology resources to support the DSP’s Innovation Hub, and another to enhance its Enterprise Architecture function. The agreements will enable DSP to accelerate deployment of strategic, cutting-edge technologies while maintaining robust governance and security standards.
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"The Department of Social Protection has one priority - we are continually seeking ways to improve how we support people right across the country, our pensioners, carers, families and people with disabilities," said Darren Murray, CIO at the Department of Social Protection. "By adopting artificial intelligence and automation responsibly, the Department will be able to advance the modernisation of public services in a significant way. This positions us to make meaningful progress in modernising public services. Our partnership with Version 1 is set to drive significant improvements to processes within the department, and it holds exciting promise for enhancing how people engage with our services in the future, ensuring value for money as we embrace ongoing innovation”.
The Innovation Hub contract will deploy specialists in AI engineering, data science, solution architecture and full-stack development to explore and implement intelligent automation across DSP operations. The Enterprise Architecture contract brings senior architects and cloud specialists to design and evolve the technology landscape underpinning critical public services.
“Our belief at Version 1 is that the best technology is the kind that makes people’s lives easier without getting in the way,” said Aidan Mullen, Commercial Director, Public Sector Ireland at Version 1. "DSP's commitment to this innovation initiative is driven by the ultimate goal of focusing on those who need support and this mirrors our own approach to innovation. Our teams will work alongside DSP's staff to ensure every technical solution we build ultimately makes life easier for people and families who depend on these vital services. This is about using AI as a tool to enhance processes and deliver heightened service quality, not replace the personal touch that matters most."
The contracts represent the latest phase in DSP's broader digital transformation strategy, and all services will be delivered in compliance with the relevant regulations (such as GDPR and the EU AI Act)
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