Initiative overview
The Data Sharing Artificial Intelligence (DSAI) Proof of Value explores how governed AI agents can responsibly support the drafting of Data Sharing Agreements (DSAs) under Ireland’s Data Sharing and Governance Act 2019 (DSGA). The Act sets out a transparent, legally defined process for sharing personal data between Public Service Bodies, requiring public consultation and publication of DSAs, with oversight by the Data Governance Board (DGB). While this framework strengthens trust and accountability, it also introduces significant administrative and coordination demands.
In 2022, the DSGA process was formalized through a nine‑stage DSA Playbook. Stage 3 of this playbook—drafting the DSA itself using a standardized legal template—is particularly challenging. Public bodies must ensure compliance with GDPR and DSGA requirements while coordinating multiple stakeholders and managing legal, technical and policy considerations. In practice, this stage often involves manual drafting, inconsistent ethical and compliance checks, version‑control issues, limited traceability between drafting bodies and OGCIO reviewers, and little structured guidance during document preparation.
The DSAI Proof of Value focuses specifically on simplifying Stage 3 by applying AI to support—and not replace—the drafting process. Governed AI agents assist with generating traceable draft sections, applying ethical prompts, and orchestrating workflows that guide users through complex requirements. Full human oversight is maintained throughout: Public Service Data Officers remain human‑in‑the‑loop, and the OGCIO remains human‑in‑command. The AI does not make autonomous decisions but instead produces legally grounded, auditable outputs that reviewers can validate and refine. This approach demonstrates how AI can safely replace a manual process while preserving transparency, accountability and institutional control.
Early results indicate reduced administrative burden and improved quality of draft DSAs, measured through staff time and resource‑use surveys. The AI‑assisted process supports the faster creation of plain‑English, legally accurate DSAs with consistent definitions, resulting in agreements suitable for public consultation and typically requiring fewer DGB recommendations. Beyond individual agreements, the initiative establishes a reusable AI governance pattern that can improve service delivery, enhance customer experience, strengthen compliance and risk management, ensure consistent application of OGCIO principles, and improve traceability for both drafting bodies and reviewers.
