Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 29 June 2023
38. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment how he proposes to ensure that artificial intelligence is developed and used in a manner that is in line with basic human rights and values; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31383/23]
View answerAI and other digital technologies are touching and transforming every aspect of our lives. In order to ensure Ireland is prepared for this transformation, Government developed a National Artificial Intelligence Strategy; AI – Here for Good, which was launched in July 2021, and set out a vision that Ireland would be an International leader in using AI to the benefit of our population, through a people-centred, ethical approach to AI development, adoption and use.
A core part of the strategy is a governance ecosystem that promotes trustworthy AI, and much has been achieved in this area since the strategy was launched.
The EU Artificial Intelligence Act (AIA) is a groundbreaking regulation which applies to all AI developed and used in the EU. It was developed to ensure the protection of fundamental rights and user safety, as well as to build trust in the development and uptake of AI. It addresses the risks generated by specific uses of AI through a set of complementary, proportionate and flexible rules, while also setting out the governance structure for compliance to reduce risk and to ensure transparency, accountability and robustness of the systems. The AIA does not regulate the technology but rather the use of the technology, so new and evolving AI technologies will fall within its scope, particularly where the health, safety and/or fundamental rights of the individual may be negatively impacted.
The European Parliament agreed its approach by plenary vote on 14th June 2023, and my officials are now consulting with relevant stakeholders to refine Ireland’s position on the text. The incoming Spanish Presidency has indicated that it is prioritising this file, and officials in my department, who are leading on this negotiation, will work with all parties to ensure that agreement is reached as quickly as possible while working to ensure that the regulation is flexible and fit for purpose and that the fundamental rights and safety of the individual are central.
Ireland is also actively participating in the Council of Europe's negotiations on a Legal Convention on AI which is underpinned by human rights, democracy and rule of law. This is also being led by Officials in my Department and it is expected that negotiations will conclude by April 2024.
Together, the EU AI regulation and the Council of Europe's Convention on AI will provide a comprehensive framework for the design, development and use of AI in the EU, ensuring that we have a regulatory space that is flexible and future-proofed and which provides for the ongoing safety and protection of the fundamental rights of the individual.
Preparations for AI standards and certification - in the EU and here in Ireland - are also well progressed. Much progress has also been made in preparing our skills infrastructure to deliver the skills that will be needed, so that the workforce is prepared for AI adoption.
