2nd January 2026
Niamh Smyth TD Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment with special responsibility for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation today welcomed OpenAI as the newest signatory to Ireland’s Charter for Digital Inclusion. This Charter forms part of the Department’s drive to advance digital literacy, foster equitable access to emerging technologies, and strengthen Ireland’s position as a leader in ethical and inclusive digital innovation.
Minister Smyth met with Emma Redmond, Head of OpenAI Ireland, to discuss the company’s commitment to the Charter reaffirming a shared commitment to ensuring that the benefits of artificial intelligence and digital technologies are accessible to all communities, businesses, and learners across the country.
Minister Smyth welcomed the announcement, stating:
"Ireland's Charter for Digital Inclusion represents our commitment to ensuring that technology serves everyone in our society. Digital inclusion is not just an aspiration, it is a necessity for our economic and social progress. I am dedicated to fostering partnerships that prioritise responsible, accessible, and human-centred approaches to digital transformation. OpenAI's participation in the Charter reflects the type of collaborative approach we need, bringing together businesses of all sizes, public bodies, and communities to deliver real, tangible benefits for all. By supporting SMEs and communities in their digital journey, we create a more resilient and inclusive economy where everyone can thrive."
Emma Redmond, Head of OpenAI Ireland, said:
“OpenAI is proud to further support Ireland’s vision of a digital future for all. We believe AI can expand opportunity, not limit it. Today’s commitment reflects our dedication to ensuring that individuals and businesses across Ireland can engage with AI safely, confidently, and beneficially.”
OpenAI signed up to Commitments 1 to 5 (see Notes for Editors), focusing on investing in staff upskilling and inclusive workplaces; by embedding digital-inclusion criteria into their products and corporate policies; and by delivering government-facing programmes under their OpenAI for Countries initiative.
Sign up to the Charter for Digital Inclusion Charter for Digital Inclusion - DETE
Notes for editors
The Charter for Digital Inclusion aims to support public and private organisations to join efforts in ensuring equitable access to the use of digital technologies, services, and associated opportunities for everyone. The Charter is a set of commitments to which business and other organisations can sign up to maximise their efforts in contributing to bridging the digital gap by promoting basic digital skills, building awareness and helping people get online.
Commitments for Digital Inclusion
Businesses and organisations can choose the commitments that best align with their goals.
The Charter asks businesses and organisations to take action by selecting from the list of commitments below.
- We will integrate the digital inclusion principles into our everyday operations and recognise the value of digital tools in supporting wellbeing, access to services, and economic empowerment.
- We commit to providing all staff with the opportunity to develop essential digital skills and actively encourage participation in this learning.
- We commit to making our website easy to use, accessible to all, and designed to support everyone—regardless of ability or experience—in getting online, accessing services, building digital confidence, and embracing digital tools.
- We will support digital inclusion initiatives, embracing the United Nations principle of “Leave No One Behind”.
- We will seek to build local and national partnerships with other organisations, sharing ideas and coordinating efforts to achieve a greater impact collectively.
- We will support sustainability by encouraging the donation of digital equipment to organisations/communities in need.
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