Shay Brennan (Dublin Rathdown, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Today, we are addressing a matter of critical national importance, which is the transformative power of artificial intelligence and the significant opportunity for Ireland to establish itself as a global leader in this field. The decision we make now will impact not only our economic future but also the way we work, live and interact as a society for decades to come. As we embark into 2025, it is clear that AI is no longer a distant prospect but a present reality reshaping our economy and society. The potential of AI to drive growth and innovation in Ireland is immense, with some projections even suggesting it could boost GDP by tens of millions over the next decade. To seize this opportunity, we must build upon the refreshed AI - Here for Good: National Artificial Intelligence Strategy. The strategy emphasises our commitment to a humancentric, ethical approach to AI development, adoption and use. We must position Ireland at the forefront of implementing the EU AI Act, participate constructively in the EU AI board, and foster public trust through transparency and engagement.

Our Government must increase investment in AI. While we are set to increase spending on AI research projects by over 50% to €1.8 million in 2025, we must go further. We must guide the development of data centre infrastructure crucial for AI growth, focusing on renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technology. We must also invest in nationwide 5G and other critical digital infrastructure to support AI development.

Education and skills development are crucial. We are proud that Ireland was one of the first countries in the world to develop an industry-driven, postgraduate MSc in artificial intelligence, but we have to do more. We have to implement comprehensive AI education programmes at all levels, from primary schools to professional development. We must expand digital upskilling and reskilling initiatives, including those available via Skillnet and Springboard+.

The impact of AI on our job market is already evident. While up to 160,000 jobs in Ireland could see more than half of their work activities automated by AI, the majority of Irish employers believe that AI adoption will ultimately result in more jobs, not fewer. In fact, 51% of employers report that AI introduction will create more roles than it replaces. We are seeing this trend in action. The demand for AI professionals in Ireland has skyrocketed, with a 142% increase in the past six months alone. An additional 8,000 AI-related jobs are expected to be created this year. In my constituency, Dublin Rathdown, we are witnessing this growth first-hand. Our area is home to several global companies that have already announced hundreds of new local AI-related jobs. This is a testament to Ireland's growing reputation as a hub for AI innovation and talent.

To drive AI adoption across our economy, we must develop a national campaign to raise awareness among small and medium enterprises of the benefits of AI adoption and the available supports. The Government can and should lead by example. We must use AI to transform online public services, making them more efficient and effective. We must also develop AI strategies for key sectors such as healthcare, leveraging AI to improve patient access, experience and outcomes.

Innovation and research are key to our success. We have to continue to support and expand initiatives like the national AI hub, increase funding for AI research and development and establish an AI regulatory testbed to foster innovation while ensuring responsible developments. On the international stage, we have a clear opportunity to strengthen Ireland's position in global AI initiatives and collaborations. We must leverage our unique position as an EU member with a strong foothold in the tech sector to play a key role in global AI development, roll-out and governance discussions. To ensure ethical and responsible AI governance, we must strengthen the role of the AI Advisory Council in providing independent advice on emerging AI challenges. We need to roll out AI standards and certifications aligned with the EU AI Act and deliver transparency and accountability in public service AI deployments.

AI is not some far-off concept. It is the present reality and is transforming our world. From the innovation tech hubs in Dublin to the enterprising communities right across rural Ireland, AI offers us the tools to enhance our quality of life, fuel economic growth and cement Ireland's position as a technological powerhouse on the global stage. We should embrace this challenge with the spirit of innovation and determination that has always been the hallmark of Irish ingenuity. We must work together in government, industry and academia to ensure the benefits of AI are maximised for all our citizens.

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