The Government has been urged to simplify the regulatory burdens facing tech companies.
In its pre-budget submission, Technology Ireland, the Ibec group that represents the technology sector, said that a complex framework of EU digital and AI-related regulation, has created significant compliance burdens for tech companies - particularly startups and SMEs.
"This risks stifling innovation and eroding Ireland and Europe's competitiveness in the global tech race," Technology Ireland said.
"There is a growing need for simplification, coherence, and predictability in how these rules are implemented and interpreted across Member States."
It added that Ireland, as a leading European tech hub, has a "strategic interest in advocating for a more streamlined and innovation-friendly regulatory environment at the EU level".
Technology Ireland said that while it supports enhancing online safety, the approach taken by Government and regulators over the past few years has created an overly burdensome landscape for business which often goes beyond the spirit of EU law.
"National law which fragments and creates a patchwork of EU frameworks or delays the implementation of rules risks Ireland’s reputation as a trusted regulatory partner in the EU," the group said.
In its submission, Technology Ireland said regulators should be guided to consider the economic impact of their work and plans on the whole economy, and should function in a manner that serves competitiveness and public interest objectives.
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The group has also called for investment in training programmes for workers on the use of artificial intelligence.
It urged the Government to use the National Training Fund for strategic, large-scale investment to equip workers with advanced digital capabilities.
Technology Ireland has also called for the swift implementation of the recommendations of Silicon Island: Ireland’s National Semiconductor Strategy.
"As we look toward 2030, the next five years will be pivotal for Ireland and the global economy," said Director of Technology Ireland Una Fitzpatrick.
"Investment in skills and innovation is not a discretionary spend - it is a national imperative.
"The National Training Fund is employers’ money, collected to invest directly in workforce transformation. Using it strategically is key to unlocking Ireland’s AI-enabled future," Ms Fitzpatrick said.
