Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, Solidarity)
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43. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps he will take to protect the estimated 30 percent of Irish workers whose jobs could be replaced by AI; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62273/25]

Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a transformative force that holds immense potential for our economy and society. Harnessing the benefits of AI is essential for Ireland to future-proof our industries and remain globally competitive.

Equally, AI is a disruptive technology and I am acutely aware of the concerns regarding the impact of AI on the labour market. Much of the independent research available to date indicates that AI has been augmenting rather than replacing jobs.

The Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN) report ‘AI and the Irish labour market’ (November 2025) found that Ireland’s enterprise sector and workforce are adapting rapidly to AI, with strong demand for AI skills matched by solid supply. However, as the report rightly notes, Government must continue to monitor and address any risks AI may pose to our workforce.

My Department, with the ESRI and the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council, is undertaking research on the potential impacts of AI on key sectors of the Irish economy. The final report, due to be published in 2026, will help to inform evidence-based policymaking and ensure Ireland remains competitive and resilient in the face of rapid technological change.

What is clear is that development of new capabilities and capacities in the workforce will be necessary as it is very likely that new types of jobs will emerge.

Government’s priority is to ensure our workers are reskilled and upskilled as the demand for new skills sets emerges. CeADAR, Ireland’s Centre for AI, supports companies in talent and workforce development. Springboard+ 2025 programmes offer thousands of free or subsidised higher education places, enabling individuals to upskill in areas such as AI and cybersecurity. Skillnet Ireland is also helping businesses to address skills needs in AI.

Finally, the recently published Action Plan for Competitiveness and Productivity includes a strategic action to establish an AI Observatory, to provide real-time data and insights on AI metrics, such as labour market dynamics and skills needs. This would greatly assist government to develop national AI and jobs policy in the years ahead. This proposal is in the very early stages of initial scoping and it will take some time to fully develop a plan.