AI workshop findings to shape forthcoming national strategy

Attendees across government and industry reportedly supported creating a dedicated AI Office

The enterprise minister has confirmed further information about the government's recent AI Strategy Workshop, including who attended and how the session will feed into the Island's developing national approach to artificial intelligence.

Tim Johnston was responding to a written question from Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper, who asked for the date of the workshop, a list of attendees, and whether presentations or minutes would be published.

Mr Johnston said the event took place on 16 September this year and was organised by Digital Isle of Man with support from the Chief Minister's Office.

Deloitte LLP facilitated the session, which brought together representatives from the Department for Enterprise, Cabinet Office, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Education, Sport and Culture, along with private sector figures and other 'key stakeholders'.

According to Mr Johnston, attendees unanimously endorsed creating a National AI Office to lead and coordinate the development of any future National AI Strategy.

Priority actions identified at the workshop included establishing the office within two months, defining its role across government and industry, issuing a Statement of Strategic Intent, outlining how AI could support economic growth and quality of life, and securing wider stakeholder collaboration.

The minister said the outcomes from the workshop will be incorporated into the forthcoming National AI Strategy so they can be "shared in the right context".

He added that presentations, documents and other materials from the session would be reviewed and may be published as part of that process.