An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) mission has formally endorsed Ireland’s nuclear and radiation safety framework, describing it as robust, independent and aligned with international best practice—while spotlighting Ireland’s use of generative artificial intelligence as a standout regulatory innovation.
Following a 10-day Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) mission from 19 to 28 January, the IAEA confirmed that Ireland is fully compliant with IAEA safety standards, despite having no nuclear power plants or research reactors. The review underscores Ireland’s growing role as a global benchmark for radiation safety governance in non-nuclear states.
The mission, conducted at the request of the Government of Ireland and hosted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), assessed the country’s legal, governmental and regulatory arrangements for nuclear and radiation safety across medicine, industry and other applications involving radioactive sources.
AI-powered regulation draws international attention
In a significant endorsement, the IRRS team highlighted the EPA’s Generative AI Policy as a good practice—a rare distinction—recognizing its potential to enhance regulatory efficiency, decision-making and assistive technologies. The finding positions Ireland among early adopters of AI-enabled safety oversight within the international nuclear regulatory community.
“This is a forward-looking example of how regulators can responsibly leverage AI to strengthen safety outcomes,” the mission noted, encouraging wider international learning from Ireland’s approach.
Strong institutions, clear roles
Since the last IRRS mission in 2015, Ireland has further strengthened its regulatory architecture. The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) has been designated as the independent regulator for medical exposure to ionizing radiation, while the EPA continues to oversee radiation protection for workers and the public.
The IAEA team—comprising 11 experts from ten countries and two IAEA staff—conducted extensive interviews with national authorities and observed regulatory inspections at industrial and medical facilities, including Beaumont Hospital and the Hermitage Clinic.
“The IRRS team was very impressed with the professionalism and commitment of Irish regulators,” said mission leader Mika Markkanen of Finland’s Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority. “Their focus on continuous improvement is commendable.”
Opportunities for next-phase leadership
While recognizing strong performance, the IAEA also outlined priority actions to future-proof Ireland’s system, including long-term management of radioactive waste, the creation of a national dose register, and stronger coordination between the EPA and HIQA when licensing medical facilities.
Government ministers Darragh O’Brien and Jennifer Carroll MacNeill welcomed the findings, confirming that Ireland will act on the recommendations to further strengthen public and environmental protection.
Call to action: learn from Ireland’s model
With the final IRRS report due within three months—and set to be made public—the IAEA’s findings offer regulators, policymakers and health authorities worldwide a timely opportunity to study Ireland’s AI-enabled, non-nuclear safety model.
As global use of radiation in healthcare and industry expands, Ireland’s approach signals a clear message: innovation, independence and international standards can coexist—and deliver trust.