Oireachtas officials had to overhaul the system for TDs to ask questions to clamp down on AI use

TheJournal.ieIndependentCenter8 hr. ago

In Ireland, members of parliament (TDs) will be required to use a new system called Oireachtas Áis-Linn starting in September to submit parliamentary questions (PQs) to ministers. This change aims to address a backlog caused by increased demand, with over 50,000 PQs submitted so far in 2026—up 19% from the previous year. The new system replaces the current email-based process and is already used for other administrative tasks within the Oireachtas. The article presents a poll asking whether TDs should be allowed to use artificial intelligence to draft their parliamentary questions, with responses showing most respondents opposed the idea.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced question regarding the use of AI in drafting parliamentary questions, offering the poll results without overtly endorsing any particular stance. It focuses on the procedural changes and provides factual data without leaning toward either supporting or opposing AI use.

TheJournal.ieIndependentCenter22 hr. ago

The number of parliamentary questions (PQs) submitted by TDs in Ireland has risen sharply, with over 50,000 submitted so far in 2026, up 19% from the previous year. Concerns were raised about the strain on the system due to increased usage, particularly linked to the potential use of AI in generating questions. In response, the Oireachtas implemented a new system called Áis-Linn for submitting PQs, replacing the current email-based method. This system aims to streamline the process and reduce the volume of questions by requiring TDs to submit each query individually. While some TDs, including Independent Ireland's Ken O’Flynn, acknowledged using AI for questions, he emphasized the importance of accuracy and legitimacy over the tools used. The Department of Health received the most PQs, highlighting ongoing scrutiny of government operations.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the issue of increased PQ submissions as a factual development, focusing on administrative changes to manage the workload. It reports on both the implementation of new systems and the debate around AI use without overtly favoring either side. The tone remains neutral, citing TDs