AI Threatens 110,000 Irish Jobs, High-Tech and Clerical Workers Most at Risk
Engineers Ireland warns that AI could threaten 110,000 jobs in Ireland, particularly in high-tech and clerical sectors. Public concern is high, with many fearing job losses and misuse of personal data. The body advocates for strong regulation and support to manage AI's impact and leverage its transformative potential.
Engineers Ireland reports that approximately 110,000 jobs in the Republic of Ireland are vulnerable to AI automation in the short to medium term. This aligns with international estimates of 6 per cent to 7 per cent of jobs at risk, and research by the Economic and Social Research Institute indicating 7 per cent of Irish workers could face job loss.
Clerical workers and high-tech professionals are identified as most susceptible. A report, «Engineering and AI», based on Ipsos B & A research, shows two out of three people surveyed are familiar with AI, and three-quarters of 1,000 respondents fear job losses and misuse of personal information. 57 per cent believe AI needs tighter government regulation.
Despite fears, Engineers Ireland notes little evidence of AI boosting productivity; MIT research found 95 per cent of organizations reported «zero gains» from AI pilot projects. Similarly, 69 per cent of executives using AI for about 1.5 hours weekly reported little impact. Director General Damien Owens emphasized the need for strong regulation, economic planning, and support for those affected to position Ireland as an AI adaptation leader.