AskCI shortlisted for European Social Services Awards 2026

The Citizens Information Board’s new AI chatbot, AskCI has been shortlisted for the European Social Services Awards (ESSA) 2026 in the Social Services Delivery Innovation category.

The European Social Services Awards are organised annually by the European Social Network and celebrate excellence, innovation and collaboration in social services across Europe. The awards highlight initiatives that make a positive difference to people and communities and provide an opportunity to share best practice among social service organisations.

The Social Services Delivery Innovation award recognises new and improved ways of delivering social services. This may include new integrated service delivery reforms, models, or approaches that enhance the quality, accessibility, and sustainability of social support.

The shortlisting of AskCI recognises the important role AskCI plays in helping people access trusted information and support. AskCI also showcases how AI can be used responsibly to enhance services, empower users and improve access to information.

About AskCI

AskCI is the first public service chatbot of its kind in Ireland. It helps people find clear, reliable information about public services, rights and entitlements by answering questions in plain language using only verified content from the citizensinformation.ie website.

CIB developed AskCI in collaboration with the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO) with the support of the Department of Social Protection. It was created in response to changes in how people now search for information online, including the growing use of AI-generated search summaries.

Since its launch as a pilot in December 2025, there has been strong public demand for AskCI’s services. It is used by an average of 900 people every day, helping users get answers quickly, at any time, without needing to create an account or share personal data. AskCI can respond in Irish and other languages when questions are asked in those languages.