73. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the usage of artificial intelligence within her Department; the categories of usage; the usage of artificial intelligence within any bodies under the aegis of her Department; the categories of usage; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57225/26]

My Department is actively exploring the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence (AI), while ensuring that appropriate policy, governance and oversight arrangements are in place.

As part of this work, the Department is deploying AI-enabled tools to support staff productivity and efficiency. These include a desktop AI service for staff, the use of which is governed by the Department's AI Policy and is aligned with the Guidelines for the Responsible Use of AI in the Public Service.

The Department also provides an AI-enabled digital assistant for staff involved in passport processing. The assistant provides access to a knowledge base to support decisioin-making and does not have access to passport application records or applicants' personal data.

Oversight of AI-related initiatives is provided through the Department's established governance arrangements, including the ICT Committee and Management Board.

There are no other bodies under the Aegis of the Department.