Transform Gov - the digital government podcast

Two years and nine months.That’s how long people were waiting in the system — until everything had to change.What happens when a public service built for 3,000 applications a year suddenly faces over 18,000?That was the reality facing Ireland’s International Protection Office — a system under intense pressure, with growing backlogs, long delays, and real human consequences.In this episode of Transform Gov, Maeve Kneafsey speaks to Emer Mullins and Daniel Drennan, the team behind a transformation programme that didn’t just improve a service — it fundamentally redesigned it.From paper files that could stretch the length of a room…to fully digital workflows, online interviews, and real-time data dashboards…this is a story of what it actually takes to deliver change inside the public service — at scale, under pressure, and in real time.You’ll hear:What the system looked like before — and why it wasn’t sustainableHow they rebuilt processes before introducing technologyWhat changed for staff — and for applicantsHow decisions increased dramatically without simply adding more peopleWhat other public sector teams can learn from thisThis is not theory.This is real delivery.🎧 Listen now — and if it resonates, share it with someone working on transformation.Chapters00:00 — Welcome to Transform Gov 01:20 — What the International Protection Office actually does 02:30 — The surge: from 3,000 to 18,000 applications 04:44 — The “before”: paper, delays and pressure 06:44 — Waiting times: up to 2 years and 9 months 08:21 — The complexity: multiple agencies involved 10:07 — The tipping point — why change was unavoidable 11:25 — Where the transformation started 13:45 — Scaling up: staff, infrastructure and process 15:27 — From paper to digital — the reality on the ground 20:40 — Digitising 35,000+ case files 22:20 — Online interviews — what changed 25:49 — Time saved, faster decisions, real outcomes 27:30 — Preparing for new EU migration rules 29:39 — A fully digital applicant journey 32:38 — Data, dashboards and decision-making 34:59 — Lessons for other public sector teams 39:21 — What comes next Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An insider's guide to a brilliant entry for the Ireland eGovernment AwardsMost teams think awards are about technology, scale, or budget.They’re not.On this episode of Transform Gov, we sit down with Declan Tuite, Head Judge of the Ireland eGovernment Awards, and Maeve Kneafsey, to break down what really separates winning entries from the rest.Why strong projects fall short.What judges are actually looking for.And how to turn your work into a clear, compelling entry.Because here’s the truth:The difference between winning and losing is often not the project —it’s how it’s explained.If you’re planning to enter the Ireland eGovernment Awards 2026, start here.Ready to enter? You can find step-by-step guides to entry on our website https://digitalgovawards.com/enter/resources/Chapters00:00 – Why this episode matters: helping you win00:30 – Entries now open: key dates and deadlines01:10 – Meet the head judge: Declan Tuite02:00 – The #1 mistake applicants make02:40 – It’s not the tech — it’s the story03:20 – What judges actually look for04:00 – Before and after: showing real impact04:40 – Proof, not promises: using stats and evidence05:30 – Who is the user? Why it matters06:10 – Avoid this: jargon and over-explaining06:50 – Innovation vs real-world results07:30 – Picking the right category (and why it matters)08:20 – Start early: why timing improves your entry09:00 – Using supporting documents and visuals09:40 – Writing clearly: answering the actual questions10:20 – What makes an entry stand out11:10 – Small projects can win (and do)12:00 – Step-by-step: how to enter online13:10 – Register, save, refine: how the system works14:00 – Entering multiple categories14:50 – What happens after you submit16:00 – Final advice from the head judge17:00 – Deadline reminder and key dates18:00 – Why you should enter (even if unsure) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Part 2 of this Transform Gov conversation, Marie Wallace (Accenture) moves beyond the concept of digital identity — and explains what it actually means in practice for service delivery, cost, and efficiency.The headline figure? Up to €8 billion in economic impact for Ireland.But the real story is where that value comes from:removing manual verification from serviceseliminating repeated onboarding across organisationsreducing friction across life eventsand integrating identity directly into business processesFrom passports to healthcare to supply chains, this is a look at how identity sits at the centre of service transformation.And why fixing it could change everything.Get the full report The Identity Economy https://forms.office.com/r/fqCBsvQRv3Chapters00:00 Bringing digital identity into real-world impact01:18 €8bn — where the number comes from01:56 Manual verification — the hidden problem02:46 Repeating data across services03:06 Life events — why services don’t connect04:53 Personalised services explained05:47 Data control and AI at the edge08:46 Fraud, deepfakes and verification12:01 Where the biggest gains are (health, pensions, services)13:38 Ireland’s opportunity and readiness15:48 What governments must do next18:04 What could derail progress21:28 What changes over the next 3–5 years Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Digital identity is often talked about — but rarely understood in practical terms.In this episode of Transform Gov, Maeve Kneafsey speaks with Marie Wallace, Managing Director and Global Lead for Digital Identities at Accenture, about what is broken in how we prove who we are today — and what is changing.From repeatedly filling out forms to sharing far more personal data than necessary, Marie explains why current identity systems are no longer fit for purpose — and how digital wallets and selective data sharing could transform how citizens access services.This conversation focuses on:Why identity systems are fragmented and inefficientHow digital wallets give citizens more control over their dataWhat “selective sharing” actually looks like in practiceHow trust is changing in a digital worldThe risks if identity systems are implemented badlyIn Part 2 we explore the economic impact and what this means for Ireland.Chapters00:00 Introduction to digital identity and control of data01:12 What digital identity actually means (and why it’s broken)02:14 Why sharing too much data is a problem03:02 Marie’s background in AI and data privacy04:07 Why centralised data creates risk06:18 AI, deepfakes and the growing identity challenge07:50 Designing better identity into public services09:11 Why identity isn’t reusable today10:02 Public concern around biometrics and data11:09 Breaking down silos between public and private services12:27 The real problem: forms, friction and delays13:26 What governments need to build (trust + wallets)14:57 Trust frameworks and verification explained16:27 EU regulation and what happens next17:47 Who owns identity in this model19:13 Efficiency and cost impact (part 2) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Transform Gov, Maeve Kneafsey sits down with Malcolm Byrne TD, Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Artificial Intelligence, to unpack what has actually changed — and why the pace of change is now the real issue.From courts using AI for real-time translation… to Revenue analysing thousands of tax codes… to the uncomfortable truth that other countries are already moving faster — this is not a future conversation. It’s happening now.And the question is simple: are we ready?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

COVID changed how people engage with online services — permanently.The organisations that adapted are now seeing better engagement, better access, better outcomes.The rest are still catching up.In this episode of Transform Gov, Maeve Kneafsey speaks with Aoife Prendergast of Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), whose team won the Universal Design category at the Ireland eGovernment Awards 2025.What they discovered is something every CIO, digital leader, and public service provider needs to hear:People have changed.Since COVID, expectations have shifted:always-on bite-sized easy to useMost services haven’t caught up.Aoife’s team did.They spotted the gap, redesigned using Universal Design, boosted engagement — and unlocked new funding and global collaboration.This isn’t compliance.It’s whether your service gets used at all.Key Topics Universal Design in public servicesDigital transformation in higher educationPublic sector accessibility strategyCitizen engagement post-COVIDService design and UX in governmentInclusive digital services IrelandeGovernment Awards IrelandTUS (Technological University of the Shannon)Accessibility vs usability Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is not a tech story.This is a human story.Before this system existed, vulnerable children could wait weeks for access to childcare — stuck in a maze of emails, forms, and approvals.Now? Minutes.On this episode of Transform Gov, Maeve Kneafsey speaks with Ruth Shortall (POBAL) and Ciarán Madden (Department of Children) about the system that:Cut waiting times from 3 weeks to minutesConnected multiple agencies into one seamless flowRemoved friction for frontline workers under pressureAnd quietly transformed outcomes for families at critical momentsThis is what real digital transformation looks like.Not flashy.Not theoretical.But life-changing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if a city already knew your child was starting school — and simply sent you a text asking if you agreed with the proposed school?That already happens in Helsinki.In this episode of Transform Gov, infrastructure expert Alice Charles from Arup explains how some cities are using data, digital twins and AI to plan transport, housing and infrastructure far more intelligently.You will hear:How Helsinki predicts school demand using dataWhy digital twins allow cities to test developments instantlyWhy surveys often get transport data wrongHow Copenhagen paid for its metro by building housing around stationsWhy Dublin sometimes loses international meetings to cities with better transportHow electricity data can reveal vacant homesThis conversation shows how data is quietly changing how cities function.Chapters00:00 Introduction 02:05 Helsinki’s predictive public services 04:00 Digital twins explained 05:30 Why visual planning wins public support 06:30 AI and planning systems 08:40 Human intelligence vs AI 11:10 Why surveys fail 12:10 Copenhagen’s real cycling data 15:30 MetroLink and global infrastructure firms 17:30 Metro funding through housing 20:40 Why Dublin loses business to Amsterdam 23:30 All-island infrastructure planning 26:00 Finding vacant homes using electricity data Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI may dominate the headlines — but the real race is happening somewhere else.Energy. Water. Data infrastructure.On this episode of Transform Gov, Maeve Kneafsey speaks with Alice Charles, Director at Arup and former World Economic Forum infrastructure lead, about the global competition shaping the future of cities, economies and governments.Alice explains why the AI boom is triggering what some leaders are calling the largest infrastructure build-out in history.And why the foundations of AI are not software — but power grids, water systems and data centres.In this conversation:• Why the AI race between the US and China is really about infrastructure• Why AI requires massive increases in energy and water• Why Ireland’s climate gives it an unexpected advantage for data centres• Why smart city projects failed when they focused on technology instead of citizens• Why governments must move from planning to deliveryAlice also reflects on lessons from the World Economic Forum, global infrastructure investment, and the strategic decisions countries must make to compete in a rapidly changing technological landscape.If AI is the future — the question is simple:Do we have the infrastructure to support it? Digital Government Infrastructure, AI infrastructure, Data centres, Energy transition, Urban development, Smart cities, Public sector innovation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does AI actually look like inside a local authority?In this episode of Transform Gov, Dublin City Council’s AI Lab team — Khizer Ahmed Biyabani and Richie Shakespeare — explain how they are moving beyond AI hype to deliver practical tools that improve consistency, save time and build trust.From preventing contradictory council answers to searching decades of records in seconds, they share what works, what doesn’t, and why 80% of AI success comes down to data.Why ListenHow AI prevents conflicting public-sector responsesTurning 1990s PDFs into instant search resultsTraining 500+ staff and shifting sentiment from fear to confidenceWhy data readiness matters more than the AI itselfTimeline00:00 — What the AI Lab is and why it exists 03:30 — Why a sandbox approach matters 11:30 — Training 500+ staff and changing AI sentiment 21:27 — “Ctrl+F on steroids”: AI for council questions 22:04 — Searching records back to the 1990s 24:29 — The truth: data preparation is 80% of the work 27:00 — Building control use cases and operational impact 32:40 — Scaling AI safely in local governmentAI in government, digital transformation, local government innovation, generative AI, public sector technology, Ireland eGovernment Awards, smart cities, data governance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Quantum computing is often described as “next-generation” technology — but according to Equal1 CEO Jason Lynch, it’s much closer, more practical, and more relevant to government than most people realise.In this episode of Transform Gov, Jason explains quantum computing in plain English, why it follows AI rather than replaces it, and how it could transform public services — from climate modelling and flooding prediction to healthcare, logistics and national infrastructure planning.We also explore why waiting until quantum “arrives” may already be too late for CIOs, and what public-sector leaders should be doing now to prepare.Topic timeline00:01 – What quantum computing actually is (without the jargon)03:10 – Why AI is hitting limits: energy, cost and sustainability04:30 – Healthcare, drugs and why we still don’t know how paracetamol works06:20 – Optimisation problems governments can’t solve today08:00 – Why Equal1’s data-centre approach changes everything11:40 – Why ESA became Equal1’s first customer15:40 – What CIOs should be planning for now17:50 – Quantum, security and post-quantum cryptography20:40 – Digital sovereignty and Europe’s quantum future25:00 – What citizens may notice in five years’ timequantum computing explained, quantum computing government, public sector technology, digital government podcast, future of computing, AI and quantum, government innovationwhat is quantum computing, how quantum computing affects government, quantum vs AI, when will quantum computing be used, quantum computing public services Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if improving health didn’t start with another campaign telling people what to do?In this episode of Transform Gov, Maeve Kneafsey speaks with Stephen McPeake, founder of Civic Dollars, about a practical, community-led way councils and health bodies are encouraging healthier behaviour — and actually seeing results.Stephen explains why incentives often work better than awareness campaigns, why people push back when they’re told what to do, and how councils and health bodies are using Civic Dollars to improve wellbeing, support local businesses, and strengthen communities.A smart listen for anyone working in public health, local government, or digital transformation.Topics00:00 – 01:00 Why public services struggle to change behaviour01:00 – 03:00 A simple idea: rewarding people for time outdoors03:00 – 05:30 How health activity turns into community impact05:30 – 09:00 Using incentives instead of prescriptions09:00 – 12:10 Why public health campaigns don’t work12:10 – 15:00 Why place matters more than apps15:00 – 19:00 How innovation gets stuck in pilot mode19:00 – 27:00 What councils get, what it costs, and what’s next Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI can already create near-perfect replicas of passports, utility bills and other identity documents — good enough to bypass many existing checks.In this episode of Transform Gov, Maeve Kneafsey speaks with Dr Hitesh Tewari, Professor at Trinity College Dublin and researcher at the ADAPT Centre, about what this means for public services that rely on digital identity, from welfare and healthcare to licensing and payments.They explore:Why traditional KYC approaches are no longer sufficientHow fraud becomes dangerous when it becomes scalableHow zero-knowledge proof can allow verification without over-sharing dataHow blockchain can support trust, not speculationLessons from real-world projects in energy, voting and healthcare dataA practical, risk-focused conversation for those responsible for digital public services.Key topics 01:25 – AI-generated identity documents and KYC risk06:30 – Why scalable fraud changes everything10:45 – What blockchain is (and is not) for government13:50 – Zero-knowledge proof explained simply19:40 – Tackling greenwashing with better energy attribution22:15 – Healthcare data, silos and trust25:50 – What’s coming next: opportunities and risksDigital identity, AI fraud, KYC, public sector technology, digital government, blockchain, zero-knowledge proof, cybersecurity, trust in government, ADAPT Centre, Trinity College Dublin Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Digital services only work if everyone can use them.In this episode of Transform Gov, Maeve Kneafsey speaks with Donal Fitzpatrick and Shivaali Scully from the National Disability Authority about accessibility, universal design and the fast-emerging role of AI in public services.They explore if AI can remove barriers for people with disabilities, where serious risks around bias and privacy remain, and why involving users early in design is the single most important factor in getting digital services right.The conversation ranges from real-world examples of AI supporting accessibility, to the impact of the European Accessibility Act, and why Ireland is emerging as a global leader in universal design.This is a must-listen for anyone designing, commissioning or delivering digital services in the public or private sector.Timeline / Topics00:00 – Why accessibility is central to digital government03:00 – AI and accessibility: opportunity versus risk06:30 – Why user voices must shape design from day one09:30 – Privacy, bias and the limits of AI17:00 – European Accessibility Act explained23:00 – Ireland’s leadership in universal design34:00 – The Universal Design Grand Challenge and future talentAccessibility, Universal Design, AI in Government, Digital Public Services, Inclusion, European Accessibility Act, Public Sector Innovation, Transform Gov Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a frank conversation about pace, legislation, risk culture, and delivery at scale — and why digital reform will stall unless governments change how decisions are made, not just what they build.Part 2 of Transform Gov, Dr Tony Shannon, Head of Digital Services at Ireland’s Office of the Government CIO. This interview goes beyond strategy and confronts the real constraints holding back public-sector transformation.Tony explains why:the machinery of government is not yet fit for the digital agelegislation itself must become “digital-ready”life-event based services require cross-government ownershipIreland has a unique opportunity to lead between EU regulation and US innovationThis episode will resonate with anyone responsible for delivery, governance, funding, architecture, or reform in the public sector.Part 2 of 2Presented by Maeve KneafseyTransform Gov – part of the Ireland eGovernment Awards, in partnership with AccentureKey moments01:45 – Why 2030 is the end of the digital decade, not the start04:30 – Life events, building blocks and shared ownership07:00 – Digital public infrastructure explained11:25 – Ireland’s position between EU regulation and US innovation17:00 – Why the machinery of government is not yet fit for the digital age18:30 – The case for digital-ready legislationKey subjects: public sector digital transformation, government CIO, digital government Ireland, life events strategy, digital public infrastructure, govtech, public service reform, digital legislation, OGCIO, Transform Gov podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Tony Shannon, Head of Digital Services in Ireland’s Office of the Government CIO, shares his remarkable journey from emergency medicine to the front line of digital government.He shares why healthcare’s chaos taught him how to fix complex systems, how the NHS’s multi-billion-pound IT failure shaped his thinking, and why now—in his words—“is a moment that matters and a decade that matters.”Expect insight, urgency and practical lessons for anyone who believes public services can, and must, work better for people and planet.Part 1 of 2.Listen for:How a doctor’s pattern-recognition mindset applies to digital reformWhat went wrong with the NHS national IT programmeThe three-way equation of People + Process + TechnologyWhy the pandemic briefly showed how agile government can beWhy risk-aversion, if left unchallenged, will cost us allDigital transformation, public sector innovation, Ireland eGovernment, Tony Shannon, OGCIO, Maeve Kneafsey, healthcare informatics, open source, agile delivery, leadership, government reform, risk culture, digital public services, data, AI in government, life-event strategy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do great ideas in healthcare move from pilot projects to everyday practice?In this episode of Transform Gov, Maeve Kneafsey talks with Louise (Lou) O’Hare, Assistant National Director at the Sláintecare Transformation and Innovation Office, about how the Sláintecare Integration Innovation Fund (SIF) is creating a clear pathway for innovation across Ireland’s health system.Lou shares how the new Health Innovation Framework will ensure promising solutions — from clinician-led ideas to community telehealth — can move from proof of concept to full rollout, with proper governance, funding, and scaling support.We hear the story behind the Healthy Islands Project, how AI and innovation hubs are shaping the future of care, and what’s next for collaboration between Spark, HSE innovators, and digital health leaders.Sláintecare, HSE innovation, healthcare transformation Ireland, digital health, health technology, Spark Fund, SIF, health innovation framework, healthcare governance, telehealth, clinician innovation, HSE leadership, healthcare transformation podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Maeve Kneafsey talks with Paula Lyons, Ass. Secretary and Head of Service Development at the Department of Social Protection, about how her team is redesigning services around life events like having a child, retirement, or bereavement.They discuss:Why DSP’s philosophy is “digital by desire”, not by forceHow citizen trust and data sharing are unlocking connected servicesThe next generation of online welfare and pension servicesA must-listen for anyone shaping digital government and citizen-first transformation.Subscribe now for personal email updates www.digitalgovawards.com01:05 – What motivates Paula to stay in public service10:00 – How “Digital by Desire” became DSP’s guiding principle24:05 – Designing services around real life events29:30 – AI pilots and the future of digital service delivery Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ireland is preparing radical moves to accelerate housing delivery. But what if the real breakthrough doesn’t come from policy — but from technology?In this episode of Transform Gov, Maeve Kneafsey meets Gavin Duffy, Founder & CEO of RealSim, the Irish company building ultra-accurate 3D digital twins of real towns, cities, and infrastructure.Gavin explains how immersive planning tools can speed up decisions, reduce objections, and help councils and agencies build better homes and infrastructure, faster.From Jersey to Fingal and Balbriggan, this is a masterclass in practical digital transformation for public planning and housing delivery.Digital twin Ireland, housing emergency Ireland, planning reform Ireland, public-sector innovation, RealSim, Gavin Duffy, Maeve Kneafsey, Transform Gov, Fingal County Council, Balbriggan regeneration, Jersey planning model, e-planning Ireland, 3D planning tools, Irish housing delivery, local authority innovation.00:00 – Why Ireland’s housing emergency needs new tools04:30 – What RealSim actually does in plain English08:10 – Lessons from Jersey’s planning transformation14:00 – Why Irish planning is still PDF-first18:40 – Balbriggan case study25:00 – How digital twins reduce objections30:40 – What councils need to adopt digital twins35:30 – The future: national digital twin for Ireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Childhood movement skills — hopping, skipping, throwing, catching — have collapsed globally. But one Irish spin-out is changing that story.Dr Jamie McGann, co-founder of MoveAhead, joins Maeve Kneafsey on Transform Gov to reveal how his Dublin-based team built the world’s largest dataset of children’s movement, and how it’s now driving apps, curricula, and classrooms from Ireland to China.In this award-winning collaboration with Smart D8, MoveAhead helps teachers objectively assess movement, personalise PE through AI, and bring physical literacy back into the heart of education.Learn how Irish innovation can tackle one of the biggest health and education challenges of our time.Listen, share, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts — or watch on YouTube UC8jdqo_NbX6BHmkTynUdWJw.Kinder Joy of Moving, Kinder App, Smart D8, Dublin City University, DCU, Sport Ireland, NCCA, Irish EdTech, Global Child Health, Movement Skills, AI in Education Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can AI make decisions, not just suggestions? Professor Alan Smeaton — DCU researcher, Government AI Advisory Council member and builder of Ireland’s first AI teaching assistant — explains what agentic AI really means and why Estonia is blazing ahead and already using it in classrooms. He tells host Maeve Kneafsey why Ireland can’t afford to wait, how data can save citizens money, and why AI literacy must become a national skill and future economic stability and growth.[00:00] When AI starts to act  [06:00] Teaching the machines that teach us  [13:00] Estonia’s national rollout  [22:00] What is Agentic AI?  [30:00] Why AI literacy matters nowAgentic AI, Artificial Intelligence in Government, Digital Government, Public Sector Transformation, Generative AI, AI Literacy, Alan Smeaton, DCU, AI Advisory Council Ireland, Estonia Digital Government, Ireland eGovernment Awards, Accenture Public Sector, Transform Gov Podcast, Ireland, Europe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From leading roles in the London 2012 Olympics to advising governments on next-generation infrastructure, Huda As’ad of Accenture believes we’re entering a new golden age — where AI, data, and digital twins redefine how nations build, maintain, and sustain public infrastructure.In this episode of Transform Gov, she explains how technology can cut waste, enhance safety, and build public trust in delivery. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the London Olympics to Ireland’s National Development Plan — Huda As’ad, Managing Director for Capital Projects & Infrastructure at Accenture, shares how data, AI, and digital twins are reshaping how nations build and maintain public assets.Learn how predictive analytics is saving 25% on maintenance costs, how transparency builds trust, and why “fail fast, learn fast” is the new rule for public projects that deliver real outcomes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A conversation with one of the Ireland’s and UK's most influential CIOs on people-first transformation, AI in action, and why governance makes or breaks digital change.Richard Corbridge has led some of the biggest digital transformations in health, government and retail — from Ireland’s HSE and the NHS to Boots, the UK’s Department for Work & Pensions, and now property giant Segro. In this episode, Richard shares what it takes to keep technology people-first, how to make AI deliver real outcomes, and why governance and culture shape the CIO role more than ever. A must-listen for digital leaders navigating transformation in both the public and private sector.Key Topics for CIOsPeople-first digital transformation — why “citizen, patient, customer or colleague” all come first, not the tech.The evolving CIO role — moving from “the basement” to the boardroom, and why CIOs must be catalysts and foundations for change.AI in the public sector — lessons from the UK Dept. of Work & Pensions on using AI to read 24,000 handwritten letters daily and deliver help in 24 hours instead of 4 weeks.Avoiding AI hype — how to stop “AI for AI’s sake” and pick the right problems to solve.Governance that enables speed — why private sector governance delivers faster transformation and what public sector can learn.Agile vs. perfection — “Don’t let great be the enemy of good” in digital deployment.Building digital talent pipelines — attracting and developing IT professionals in public service, and tackling diversity and generational gaps.Cross-sector insights — how lessons from health, retail, government and industry overlap and inform each other.Future vision for public services — joined-up government, once-only data use, and seamless citizen experience.Personal side of leadership — balancing life as CIO with a thousand-strong vinyl collection and a “collector’s mindset.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When the National Broadband Plan reached Longford, Danny Lynch and his team turned a rural challenge into a digital revolution. Partnering with Microsoft and Ericsson, they introduced hundreds of schoolchildren to coding, built new digital career pathways, and helped transform Longford into a hub of opportunity. Discover how a small county became a big player in Ireland’s public-sector digital transformation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI in government has shifted from “don’t touch it” to “how fast can we scale it?” In this episode of Transform Gov, host Maeve Kneafsey speaks with Marianne Cassidy of the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform about Ireland’s updated AI guidelines—designed not to restrict, but to empower.Discover how cross-functional teams (from HR to legal to CIOs) shaped practical frameworks and decision tools; why real use cases—from Revenue, Agriculture and the HSE—were the turning point; how the IPA is embedding AI into CPD and leadership training; and why trust, GDPR compliance and collaboration are critical to scaling safe, human-centric AI across the public sector.If you work in digital transformation, service design, or policy innovation, this is a must-listen: insights, examples, and lessons you can apply right now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Maeve Kneafsey talks to Marianne Cassidy (DPER) about Ireland’s Digital Public Service Plan to 2030.Life-event lens: births, social housing, driving, becoming a studentGovernance: hybrid model for cross-department ownershipDesign process: user research, journey mapping, Target Operating ModelsImpact: cutting 40+ steps from the birth journeyTech: “skin-over-legacy” for seamless front-end experienceInclusion: designing for amplified needs via Nimbus Centre partnerships Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎧 What happens when 31 local authorities decide to act as one? Sabahat Khan, Assistant CEO and CIO of the LGMA, joins Transform Gov to reveal how they're reshaping Ireland’s local government services through design-led, citizen-first digital transformation.From standardising services to building trust and rolling out a national SOC, this is digital reform with teeth. Tune in now for practical insight, big vision, and what it takes to get 31 moving parts working as one.🔗 Listen here or watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@Transformthedigitalgover-123/videos Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the secret to protecting your core services was giving away content on other platforms? And what if public trust hinged on the accessibility of your apps?In Part 2, RTÉ’s Tracey Diamond and Joe Hoban reveal how Ireland’s national broadcaster: Used short-form content to amplify traditional TV and radio Made user experience and accessibility central to rebuilding trust Navigates AI’s promise and pitfalls in public service media Delivers lessons every public sector team should hear🎧 Essential for leaders shaping digital government. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

RTÉ’s Joe Hoban and Tracey Diamond share how their award-finalist campaign “We’re here to be better, for you” became the start of a new era for public service media.In this episode of Transform Gov, Maeve Kneafsey asks:✔️ Why did RTÉ choose to go public with such a bold message? ✔️ How can public organisations communicate honestly without making things worse? ✔️ What role does digital strategy play in winning back younger audiences? ✔️ How can you create impact on a minimal budget?Watch for practical insights every public sector leader and communications team can use — whether you’re facing a crisis or building public trust from the ground up.Subscribe for more stories of public sector transformation and innovation www.digitalgovawards.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Transform Gov, Maeve Kneafsey welcomes Jacky Fox, Global Lead for Accenture’s Security Practice, and Chris Davey, Security Lead for Accenture Ireland. They unpack:The hardest cyber challenges in public services todayWhy legacy IT and shadow cloud matter more than you thinkWinning the human factor: awareness, culture and insider riskHow AI, automation & threat intelligence are reshaping defencePractical, scalable actions any public-sector CIO can takeEssential listening for transformation leaders and tech providers aiming to build cyber trust in government. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Callaghan of Partsol explains why Cognitive AI is not just another GenAI tool — it’s a purpose-built engine designed for absolute traceability, source transparency, and auditability.If you're in government, regulation, justice, or compliance — this one’s for you.This episode reveals:*Why “hallucinations” make GenAI risky for public services*How Cognitive AI guarantees evidence-based outputs*Real examples from defence, legal, and government sectors*Why public servants should demand AI that can be cross-examined*How this tech enables decision support without losing controlWhether you're drafting legislation, handling appeals, or working in regulatory environments — this is the kind of AI that works with you, not around you.🎧 Listen now and discover what explainable, defensible AI really looks like. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Transform Gov, Maeve Kneafsey is joined by Tom Johnson, MD of insight consultancy Trajectory, to explore what the public really thinks about AI — and the answers might surprise you.From rising fears about deepfakes to the surprising number of people who still haven’t heard of generative AI, Tom shares exclusive research tracking public sentiment across the UK. You’ll hear why older adults and women are more cautious, how AI is already shaping public services invisibly, and what 75% of people actually agree on when it comes to regulation.If you work in government, tech, or service design — this episode is a must-listen. Because in the race to implement AI, forgetting public opinion could be the costliest mistake of all.AI public opinion, trust in AI, digital government, AI and public services, Tom Johnson Trajectory, Transform Gov podcast, AI regulation UK, AI and demographics, AI in public sector Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Transform Gov, we explore how Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) is rethinking infrastructure management with cutting-edge tech. Stephen Smyth and Gerard O'Dea share how their team is using AI tools like RoadAI and eventually crowdsourced mobile footage to monitor over 1,700km of greenways and footpaths — all with low-cost, scalable tech.From a phone on a bike to a national data strategy, hear how innovation is driving efficiency, sustainability, and smarter public sector planning. Don’t miss their insights on data governance, citizen-generated content, and what's next for smart mobility in Ireland.Subscribe (www.digitalgovawards.com) and listen now to learn how public sector innovation is hitting the road. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Transform Gov, host Maeve Kneafsey continues her conversation with Damien McCallion, Deputy CEO and Chief Technology & Transformation Officer at the HSE, to explore how a national health system is embracing digital — not just with ambition, but with action.Damien shares the inside story of:How over 50,000 staff hours have already been saved through automationWhy the seven-year Electronic Health Record programme is built to survive turbulenceHow AI is now detecting fractures faster than ever in Irish hospitalsWhat lessons every public sector CIO and digital leader can learn from the HSE’s transformation playbookThe secret to embedding a culture of digital safety across massive frontline teamsIf you’re leading change in government — in health, education, justice or beyond — or supplying technology into the public sector, this episode is packed with practical insight, scalable ideas, and real-world results.🎙️ Listen now to discover what’s working — and what’s next. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Maeve Kneafsey talks with Damien McCallion, Deputy CEO and CTO of the HSE, about what digital transformation really takes — in the middle of complexity, crisis, and culture. From checklists to cloud systems, and from relationship-building to region-wide reform, this is a masterclass for anyone trying to lead change in the public sector.Whether you're in housing, justice, education or health — this one will land. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Transform Gov, Maeve Kneafsey speaks with Alan Browne, CEO and co-founder of Soarvo, about how their cloud-based geospatial AI platform is helping governments and local authorities turn complex drone, laser, and video data into fast, accurate infrastructure decisions. Alan shares a game-changing case study with National Highways UK, where Soarvo’s AI and augmented reality platform replaced manual road inspections, saving £17 million in one year.You’ll learn:How AI and drone footage can spot road damage before the human eye canWhy user-friendly tools (not engineers-only systems) are the future of geospatial dataHow local authorities can roll out AI pilots for under €10KWhy Soarvo is built to be used by road crews, not just data scientistsThis is practical, affordable digital transformation in action — and it's already reshaping how infrastructure is managed across the UK and Ireland.#TransformGov #AIinGovernment #SmartInfrastructure #GeospatialAI #DigitalGovernment #Soarvo #PublicSectorInnovation #LocalGovTech #AugmentedReality #DroneMapping #SpotifyPodcasts #ApplePodcasts #ChatGPT #RoadMaintenanceAI #NationalHighwaysUK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Transform Gov, host Maeve Kneafsey sits down with Dr. Robert Ross, Senior Lecturer at Technological University Dublin and lead researcher with the ADAPT Centre, to explore how public bodies can embrace generative AI — safely, strategically, and with purpose.Robert shares the inside story of the GenAI Lab, a groundbreaking partnership between ADAPT and Dublin City Council, designed to give public sector teams a trusted, low-risk space to experiment with emerging technologies. From rethinking procurement to triaging planning applications, they discuss real examples of GenAI being tested for the public good.You’ll hear:Why a “lab model” helps public bodies move faster without taking big risksWhat makes a partnership with researchers workThe surprising power of small startups in big transformation projectsHow GenAI can improve policy checks, automate translation, and save staff timePractical steps for any organisation — no matter how small — to get startedWhether you're just GenAI-curious or leading innovation in your department, this episode is packed with takeaways you won’t want to miss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transform Gov delves into the emotive and urgent issue of the planning process and the very exciting potential provided by digital technologies. RIAI president, Seán Mahon looks at the future of city planning. We explored how digital twins and 3D modeling are transforming Ireland’s planning process, making it more efficient, transparent, and citizen-focused. Seán broke down how these innovations not only speed up applications but also empower better civic engagement, real-time collaboration, and smarter urban development. If you want to know how digital transformation can unlock smarter, more livable cities—and what Ireland can learn from international leaders—don’t miss this episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wendy Walsh, Accenture Ireland’s Talent and Organisation Lead, returns for Part 2 on Transform Gov to explore the evolving relationship between people and AI in the public sector. From onboarding bots to research agents and Copilot-enabled teamwork, this episode is packed with practical insights for future-ready leaders.You’ll hear:How GenAI and agentic AI are transforming frontline public sector workWhat fusion skills are—and why they matterReal examples of how digital assistants are improving staff experienceTune in and share this episode with colleagues.Public sector, AI, agentic AI, GenAI, digital transformation, change management, Accenture, Copilot, government technology, employee experience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wendy Walsh, Accenture Ireland, shares practical insights on where public sector transformation efforts stumble—and how to turn things around What you’ll learn:- How to make it work- Essential trust and transparency - Influencers and change champions as a secret weapon Listen now and subscribe for future Transform Gov episodes www.digitalgovawards.com Public sector, digital transformation, GenAI, change management, Accenture, leadership, hyperpersonalisation, AI workforce, government innovation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With thanks to Accenture, Maeve Kneafsey is joined by Bryan Rich for part 2 of how GenAI is being used in governments across the globe. Bryan shares incredible insights into how the day-to day-lives of every public sector employee will change. #PublicsectorInnovation #DigitalTransformation #PublicService #GenAI #Accenture Transform Gov with Maeve Kneafsey and Bryan Rich www.digitalgovawards.com/podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover how governments globally are leveraging Generative AI to dramatically enhance citizen services, streamline complex processes, and upgrade legacy IT systems. Bryan Rich, Accenture's Global AI Leader for Public Sector, Defense, and Health, reveals real-world examples and the strategic thinking needed for successful AI integration. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Episode 27 of the TransformGov podcast, John Barron, CIO of Revenue, gives exclusive insights about the digital-first future of Ireland’s tax administration including, importantly, a total revolution regarding VAT.  The Revenue Commissioners are also going ‘all in’ on AI-driven services to streamline public interactions.  During COVID the team learnt alot about agility—responding to issues in days.   John outlines the biggest digital changes to tax compliance coming our way. Essential listening for those in digital transformation, government IT, finance, or policy and, of course, the entire tax industry.   With thanks to Accenture Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How does Ireland’s tax system stay ahead of the curve? In part 1 of this exclusive interview, John Barron, CIO of Revenue, reveals how technology powers tax collection, compliance, and efficiency.🔍 From the first PCs in Revenue to AI-powered compliance—this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!🎥 Listen now, subscribe, and stay ahead of the digital curve!📌www.digitalgovawards.com/podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

💡 How do you take a messy, fragmented digital landscape and transform it into a seamless, powerful online presence that reaches millions worldwide?That’s exactly what Ciara Traynor and her team at the Department of Foreign Affairs have done with Ireland.ie – a platform that’s setting the gold standard for digital government.🎙️ In this episode of TransformGov, Maeve Kneafsey sits down with Ciara to uncover:✅ The high-stakes digital strategy that made Ireland.ie a global success✅ How to manage 100+ stakeholders and still drive change✅ Key lessons for anyone in government IT, digital strategy, or transformation🔥 This isn’t just a website – it’s a masterclass in digital government at scale!📢 Listen now & get inspired! 💬 What’s the biggest challenge YOU see in digital government today? Share your thoughts on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/ireland-egovernment-awards-transform-gov-podcast/#DigitalGovernment #Egovernment #PublicSectorInnovation #IrelandIE #GovTech #DigitalStrategy #GovernmentTransformation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Dunn, Occupational Therapist at the Royal Victoria Hospital Belfast, and Dr. Dominic Holmes, founder of eXrt, took on one of healthcare’s toughest challenges—and won.With the power of AI-driven Virtual Reality, they’ve bridged the gap between overburdened clinical teams and patients in critical need, delivering:✅ Life-changing outcomes for stroke survivors✅ Revolutionary time-saving solutions for healthcare professionalsTheir story is not just inspiring—it’s a blueprint for innovation in healthcare and public sector transformation.🎙️ In this exclusive podcast interview, hear how they turned an extraordinary idea into an award-winning solution, earning them recognition in the AI Ireland eGovernment Awards for outstanding impact in digital healthcare.👉 Whether you’re in healthcare, digital transformation, or public service, this episode will leave you inspired to rethink what’s possible.📲 Listen now and subscribe at www.digitalgovawards.com/podcast🔗 Share this story to amplify ideas that are shaping the future of healthcare.#HealthcareInnovation #DigitalTransformation #AIinHealthcare #HealthTech #MedTech #PublicService #StrokeRehabilitation #Leadership Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pauline Tracey, a 40-year public sector veteran, shares her inspiring journey from libraries and finance to leading Dublin City Council’s Citizen Hub – a game-changing platform delivering digital services that truly meet citizens' needs.🎯 Key Takeaways for Public Sector Leaders:✅ Prioritising high-impact services like housing, waste reporting, and bulky item collections.✅ Building a customer-first framework with Granicus platform to integrate services seamlessly.✅ Tackling challenges like illegal dumping and enabling choice-based lettings online.✅ Using Tableau dashboards to track SLAs, improve service response times, and deliver accountability.✅ Why splitting Digital Transformation from general ICT drives agility and focus.✅ How in-house UX/UI design teams save money and improve citizen experiences.🌟 “Digital transformation is about understanding citizen needs and making services accessible. It's not just technology; it’s trust, collaboration, and prioritisation.Follow Transform Gov for more insights into public sector digital transformation https://www.linkedin.com/company/ireland-egovernment-awards-transform-gov-podcast/?viewAsMember=true#PublicSector #DigitalTransformation #CitizenExperience #GovTech #Leadership #SmartCities #DublinCityCouncil #GovernmentInnovation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Transform Gov is packed with actionable insights for professionals working on website redevelopment, accessibility improvements, and international audience engagement. Hosted by Maeve Kneafsey, Episode 22 features Liz Coffey from the National Library of Ireland (NLI), sharing their journey to deliver a world-class digital platform for users at home and abroad.What You'll Learn:Bilingual Accessibility: How the NLI prioritised Irish and English language support, working with translation companies and automation tools like Sinosta to ensure high-quality content delivery.User Experience Design (UX): The role of user research, remote workshops, and data-driven decision-making in crafting a platform that meets diverse audience needs.Digital Innovation: Implementing features like ticketing integration, event management tools, and a robust content architecture to serve both domestic and international users effectively.Global Reach: The NLI’s success in attracting audiences from Japan, the US, and beyond to their unique collections on Yeats, Seamus Heaney, and other Irish cultural treasures.Genealogy and Family History: The popularity of the NLI’s parish registers and their value to researchers, especially those tracing family roots impacted by the destruction of the Four Courts archives during the Irish Civil War.Key Results:A remarkable 84% increase in reader ticket applications since launching the new website in March 2023.Expanded online visibility and engagement through international events, webinars, and social media campaigns.Enhanced analytics to understand and cater to user interests, from genealogy to Irish literature.Future Innovations:Liz Coffey gives an exclusive preview of the NLI’s ambitious plans, including the redevelopment of the West Wing into a vibrant cultural space featuring exhibitions, learning areas, and more. With the goal of unveiling these updates for the library’s 100th anniversary in 2027, the NLI continues to set the bar for public sector innovation.Advice for Public Sector Professionals:Plan with Purpose: Establish clear deliverables and business needs before selecting development partners.Iterate and Improve: Launch first, then refine based on user feedback and post-launch reviews.Collaborate Effectively: Work closely with translation and development partners to integrate workflows seamlessly into internal systems.Don’t Miss This Episode!This conversation is a goldmine of insights for anyone working on public sector digital transformation, multilingual content strategies, or engaging international and domestic audiences.Subscribe to Transform Gov and receive your personal update for more episodes spotlighting innovation in the public sector. Hit the like button, share this podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ready to find out how data is transforming public policy? In Part 2 of our conversation with Martin Quigley, Head of Data and Analytics at Pobal, we explore practical insights and game-changing strategies for leveraging data in the public sector.What you’ll gain from this episode:✅ Actionable Advice: How to kickstart data-driven decision-making, including the role of governance in maximising outcomes.✅ Quick Wins vs. Long-Term Gains: Demonstrating early value without compromising foundational governance.✅ High-Value Data Projects: Insights from projects like the HRB(Health Research Board) and NDTRS (National Drug Treatment Reporting System) reporting system, showcasing the power of linking datasets for impactful research.✅ Empowering Data Entry Teams: Helping frontline workers see the bigger picture—how their efforts shape future policies.✅ Building Trust in Data: Transparency, quality, and accessibility as the foundation of impactful analytics.What’s new in this episode?Discover the story behind Pobal Maps, with 500k views in the last 12 months, and how GIS technology boosted the usability of the HP Deprivation Index.Learn how Pobal collaborates with public sector users to create bespoke dashboards and track the impact of interventions over time.Explore the role of open data in making the HP Deprivation Index accessible for policy-making and research.Hear about Martin’s vision for the future, including generative AI innovations and strategies to prepare the workforce for the next wave of transformation.Why listen?Martin offers invaluable insights into tackling resistance to data governance, creating impactful data products, and integrating advanced technologies like AI into public sector workstreams.Hear how data can transform policymaking to create smarter, more responsive governments. Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes that uncover the future of digital government!🔗www.digitalgovawards.com#TransformGov #DataDrivenPolicy #PublicSectorInnovation #PobalMaps #GenerativeAI #DigitalGovernment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.