Údarás na Gaeltachta, in collaboration with EY, hosted a workshop titled ‘AI na Gaeilge san Earnáil Phoiblí’ (Irish Language AI in the Public Sector ) on May 8, 2025, at the Hardiman Hotel in Galway City.
The event, organised as part of the ongoing work on the Government’s Digital Plan for the Irish language, brought together participants from various state organisations to address challenges facing the Irish language in the public sector and to develop innovative solutions using Artificial Intelligence.
Minister of Finance Jack Chambers TD opened the workshop with an inspiring address highlighting the government’s commitment to technological innovation in preserving and promoting the Irish language. The provision of services through the Irish language is an important part of this.
‘Great work is being done on AI na Gaeilge san Earnáil Phoiblí. The better public service transformation strategy lays out our shared vision for inclusive, high quality and integrated public service provision, that meets the needs and improves the lives of the people of Ireland. said Minister Chambers.
Minister Chambers wished the participants well and extended his sincere gratitude to his own department; The Department of Finance, Roinn na Gaeltachta and Údarás na Gaeltachta for their exemplary leadership in advancing Irish language initiatives in the digital sphere.
The day featured productive discussion sessions and valuable networking opportunities. Participants shared ideas on how AI can support and enhance Irish language services throughout the public sector.
Tomás Ó Síocháin, CEO of Údarás na Gaeltachta, expressed his satisfaction with the event’s outcomes:
“Today’s workshop marks a significant milestone in our AI (Ard Intleacht ) Plan for the Irish language. The enthusiasm and expertise demonstrated by all participants have resulted in concrete strategies that will transform how we approach Irish language services,” said Ó Síocháin. “By harnessing the power of AI, we’re not just adapting to technological change, we’re ensuring that the Irish language remains vibrant and relevant for future generations.”
The workshop, enhanced by EY’s expertise in technological innovation and digital transformation, has been hailed as an important step forward in the integration of modern technologies with Irish language preservation and promotion efforts within government services.
Thomas Goulding, Director of Technology Consulting, EY said that the innovations discussed today will enable the delivery of more efficient, accessible Irish language services across the public sector, ensuring that our language continues to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
