Written answer
Health Services Staff
Since January 2024, Department staff completed approximately 260 AI-training courses, equivalent to 37% of the workforce; all but one were introductory, costing €3,017.
3347. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Health the number and proportion of staff who have completed AI-related training programmes since January 2024; the levels of training, introductory or advanced use; to confirm the associated expenditure on each level of training provided, by her Department and public body; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [55876/26]
Comment on this
Since January 2024, approximately 260 instances of AI-related training have been completed by staff across the Department of Health. The Department has a workforce of approximately 700 staff, representing training participation equivalent to approximately 37% of staff. It should be noted that these figures relate to training completions rather than individual staff members and some staff may have completed more than one AI-related course.
The AI training undertaken has been primarily at an introductory level, focusing on awareness and the practical use of AI tools. All but one course completed were introductory in nature, with a single course delivered at a more advanced level.
The total expenditure on AI-related training since January 2024 amounts to €3,017.
In addition, a cohort of staff participated in a pilot of generative AI tools. As part of this pilot, staff received a combination of training and informal supports focused on awareness, responsible use and practical application.
The Department continues to support staff development in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to ensure that staff are equipped to use such technologies safely, effectively and in accordance with relevant governance, data protection and ethical requirements.