Ms Dubheasa Kelly:

Any regulation must tackle the real risk that AI tools could present to young people in mental health crisis. At a minimum, it will be vital to consider the proper role of referrals from AI tools to trusted, proven support services. Preliminary data from our international affiliates in the digital support space has shown a recent and welcome increase in AI tools making timely referrals to credible, human-run support services like ours. This perhaps shows a way in which AI could be used to support rather than replace the role of trained, empathetic person-to-person support. From consulting with our youth action panel volunteers, it is clear they have profound concerns as to the social and psychological impact of AI technology on young people, whether on mental health, romantic relationships or social development.

One of Spunout’s core values is innovation and we will always champion the free availability of information and technology where it stands to help, support and inform young people. So, too, do we believe in the fundamental value of working collaboratively with young people to understand and mitigate the risks of any new technology. As it works to develop appropriate AI regulations for Ireland, we are calling on this committee to continue and deepen its consultation with young people, as demonstrated by Coimisiún na Meán with its youth advisory committee, to prioritise regulation, education and AI digital literacy and to ensure full and timely enforcement of the Digital Services Act.

We look forward to any opportunity to further engage young people in the vital work of this committee. After all, it is they who have the most to gain and the most to lose from how we choose to approach the risks of AI.