Ireland: Technology

Ireland has emerged as Europe's leading destination for AI and technology investment, yet a significant readiness gap is emerging across Irish businesses. The third William Fry Technology Report reveals that while 80% of large firms have invested in AI, 70% of businesses overall have yet to do so, and only 11% of large businesses report achieving positive returns on their AI investments.

The European Data Protection Board and European Data Protection Supervisor have issued their Joint Opinion on the European Commission's proposed Cybersecurity Act 2 and amendments to the NIS 2 Directive. While generally supportive of strengthened cybersecurity measures, the opinion emphasizes the need to balance effective security protocols against fundamental rights to privacy and data protection, offering specific recommendations to ensure compliance with EU data protection law.

Dr Barry Scannell and tech entrepreneur Sean Blanchfield explore the transformative shift from AI copilots to autonomous agentic AI systems that are already functioning as digital workers within organisations. The discussion delves into how these AI agents are reviewing contracts, monitoring compliance, managing projects, and writing software, while examining the critical implications for governance, security, data protection, and the future of professional work.

Legal privilege in tax matters operates differently across jurisdictions, and understanding these distinctions is critical for protecting confidential communications.

Colin Rooney and Michael Egan explore how generative AI is transforming legal services, from accelerating document review in cyber incidents and DSARs to creating scalable solutions for Data Protection Impact Assessments.

This monthly legal update examines critical developments across pension scheme compliance, artificial intelligence governance, ESG fund marketing regulations, environmental law precedents, payment services legislation, and defined benefit pension surplus management. Each article addresses pressing regulatory challenges and strategic considerations for legal practitioners and corporate decision-makers navigating Ireland's evolving legal landscape.

On 20 May 2026, the European Commission published a targeted consultation on the review of Regulation (“EU”) 2023/1114 on Markets in Crypto-Assets (“MiCA”).

Ireland's position as a FinTech hub makes it an attractive jurisdiction for payment institutions seeking authorisation.

Ireland's implementation of AIFMD 2.0 brings significant regulatory changes for alternative investment funds, alongside evolving requirements for ESG disclosure and board effectiveness. The Central Bank of Ireland explores emerging opportunities in distributed ledger technology, tokenisation, and artificial intelligence while addressing future modifications to venture and growth capital fund regulations.