375. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will provide an update on the first meeting of the AI in Schools External Advisory Taskforce; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47645/26]

The AI in Education External Advisory Taskforce has been established to support the Department in developing a coherent national approach to the safe, responsible and effective use of AI across the school system at primary and post-primary level

The first meeting of the Taskforce took place on 14th May and membership of the Taskforce has now been determined and will be made available online in the coming weeks. The draft Terms of Reference is also being finalised and once signed off by the members of the Taskforce, will be made available on gov.ie along with the agreed minutes of the first meeting.

Two working groups are currently in the process of being established under the Taskforce, one will focus on assessment (summative and state certified) and the other on teaching and learning and formative assessment. Ethics, equity and inclusion will also be central to this work. It is intended that the Working Groups will have their first meetings in July.

The Taskforce will build on activity already underway across the department and the wider education system, including the publication of Guidance on AI in Schools and supports and resources for teachers and school leaders on the AI Hub.

The Taskforce will also build on wider national and European work in this area. This includes participation in a project under the Technical Support Instrument (TSI) programme of the EU Commission for a multi-country TSI Project Futureproof Education: Supporting schools in the AI evolution with six European partners. The project is being implemented by UNESCO, in cooperation with the European Commission, over a period of 24 months and will support the development of strategies and tools for AI implementation in school education.