Why Ireland’s Top Boards Are Turning to This AI Toolkit Before Their Next Big Move—Are You Ready to Risk Falling Behind?
Ever wondered if your company’s board is truly ready to handle the AI revolution—or is it flying blind towards a digital iceberg? The Institute of Directors (IoD) Ireland is stepping up with a brand-new AI Governance Toolkit designed to cut through the fog, helping directors pinpoint risks, sniff out opportunities, and steer their organizations confidently through the AI maze. With more than half of Irish businesses already embracing AI, yet less than half discussing governance, this toolkit couldn’t arrive at a more crucial time. It’s not just about keeping up; it’s about leading responsibly, safeguarding trust, and locking in competitive advantage before AI shifts from game-changer to game-over. Curious how this all ties into Ireland’s broader ambitions under the EU AI Act and what it means for your boardroom? Let’s dive in. LEARN MORE
The Institute of Directors (IoD) Ireland is launching a new AI Governance Toolkit aimed at helping company boards assess the risks and opportunities associated with artificial intelligence.
The toolkit, being launched by Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation Niamh Smyth, is designed to give directors greater insight into the frameworks and processes needed to oversee AI responsibly.
Its launch comes as Irish businesses accelerate their use of AI while new obligations under the EU AI Act put greater emphasis on governance, accountability and responsible deployment.
An IoD member survey found that 61% of organisations have already implemented AI to some or a high degree, while a further 34% are considering future use.
However, only 48% of boards have formally discussed AI governance during the past year.
The IoD said the toolkit will help directors ask informed questions, assess their organisation’s readiness and exposure to AI risks, strengthen governance structures and anticipate future developments.
Minister Smyth said the newly established AI Office of Ireland would act as the country’s central authority for implementing and overseeing the EU AI Act.
“While many AI systems used by small businesses may not be classified as high-risk under the EU AI Act, all organisations should begin assessing their use of AI technologies and reviewing their compliance obligations,” she said.
“Taking proactive steps now will help businesses prepare for regulatory requirements and ensure the responsible and trustworthy deployment of AI systems.”
Dr Caroline Spillane, chief executive of IoD Ireland, said AI adoption was moving faster than the development of governance and regulatory preparedness.
“Irish leaders recognise how AI can transform their businesses, but the pace of adoption is outstripping the development of governance, skills, and regulatory preparedness,” she said.
“With more than half of organisations already using AI tools to some degree, boards must now ensure they have the literacy, guardrails, and oversight mechanisms required to deploy AI responsibly.”
Dr Spillane said strong AI governance was “no longer an option” for businesses.
“It is central to safeguarding competitiveness, public trust, and organisational resilience,” she said.
The toolkit is intended to provide directors with a practical resource to identify governance gaps, assess AI readiness and oversee the strategic adoption of the technology.
The launch is taking place at an IoD Ireland event for independent non-executive directors, held in partnership with PwC.

The event will also examine Ireland’s preparations for supervision and enforcement of the EU AI Act and the upcoming AI Summit, which will form part of Ireland’s EU Presidency.
Rachel Higham, former chief digital and technology officer at BT, WPP and Marks & Spencer, will also take part in a discussion on how non-executive directors can support AI-driven innovation while maintaining effective oversight.




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