Written answer
Data Protection
The Department and HSE already engage with European bodies on AI governance, with safeguards for AI use in the electronic health record programme continuing to develop.
3330. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for Health if, in light of the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare and the importance of robust AI governance practices, consideration has been given to establishing a direct line of engagement between her Department, the Health Service Executive and the European Commission's AI Office, if such engagement could support benchmarking, governance assurance and vendor due diligence processes in the context of Ireland's national electronic health record programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [55811/26]
Comment on this
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to support the delivery of healthcare more effectively and efficiently, while also improving patient outcomes. The Government's AI for Care strategy and the wider Digital for Care framework emphasise the importance of ensuring that AI is deployed in a safe, responsible and trustworthy manner throughout the health service. Ireland's approach is informed by both national priorities and evolving European policy.
My Department and the Health Service Executive actively participate in a wide range of national, European and international forums relating to AI, digital health and health data governance. This includes engagement with the European Commission, Member States, the World Health Organization and other stakeholders on matters relating to AI governance, implementation of the EU AI Act and the European Health Data Space.
Ireland also contributes to the development of national guidance and governance arrangements for the responsible use of AI in health and social care. The Department and HSE have worked closely with the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) in the development of national guidance on the responsible and safe use of AI in health and social care services.
In the context of the National Electronic Health Record Programme, a range of governance, assurance, procurement, cybersecurity and data protection measures are being progressed to ensure that any future use of AI is aligned with national policy, European legislation and best international practice. Engagement with relevant European institutions, including the European Commission, will continue as these programmes develop.