New research by the Irish government has highlighted the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the workforce, revealing that about 30% of workers could see their roles replaced by AI technology. The reports, titled ‘Artificial Intelligence: Friend or Foe,’ indicate that jobs in the financial, insurance, and information sectors are at the highest risk of automation. Roles like laboratory technicians, accountants, and telephone salespeople are particularly vulnerable.
Interestingly, women face a higher risk of job displacement from AI compared to men, with more women in administrative and customer-facing roles. However, the agriculture sector seems to be the least exposed to AI. Ireland’s labor market shows a slightly higher exposure to AI than the global average, at 63% versus 60%.
The government emphasizes the importance of upskilling workers to adapt to the evolving job market and leveraging AI as a productivity booster. Minister for Finance, Michael McGrath, stressed the need for social safety nets to support workers through these changes. Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke TD, highlighted the inevitability of technological advancements and called for proactive preparation for the labor market shifts AI will bring.