Economy Minister Dr 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.
Notes to Editors
For a full list of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Advisory
Panel members visit www.economy-ni.gov.uk/articles/artificial-intelligence-advisory-panel#toc-2
