Public bodies have been warned they could face higher prices for laptops and computersHospitals, An Garda Síochána and Government departments are among hundreds of public service bodies that could be affected by a global shortage of computers and laptops caused by artificial intelligence (AI). The shortage has forced the Office of Government Procurement (OGP), which tries to save the State money when agencies buy goods and services, to issue a warning to public service bodies. It was suggested public bodies could try to use a “force majeure” clause to free themselves from the contracts. Public bodies were also told they should take legal advice if a supplier suddenly ends a contract with them. Some of the most important public bodies in the country have also been advised to consider using “remanufactured” laptops because of the shortage.

Source: The Irish Times February 12, 2026 07:30 UTC