Government should establish Citizens’ Assembly on Artificial Intelligence – Geoghegan

The Government must establish a Citizens’ Assembly on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Digitalisation and Technology to prepare for the future, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy James Geoghegan, Vice Chair of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on AI, welcomed the Committee’s second interim report published today.

“One theme that has consistently emerged over the past year is the cross-societal impact AI will have. Every sector of our economy, including education, healthcare, and public services, will be transformed by these technologies,” he said.

“Our report recommends the establishment of a Citizens’ Assembly to consider how the country should deal with this transformation.”

Deputy Geoghegan emphasised the important role Citizens’ Assemblies have played in shaping consensus on major national issues.

“Citizens’ Assemblies have previously helped develop approaches to complex societal challenges and generated real momentum for action. I believe the scale of change AI will bring justifies a similar process.”

Deputy Geoghegan also pointed to growing public concern, particularly among younger people, about the impact of AI.

“A recent report by the National Youth Council of Ireland found that teenagers as young as 13 are concerned about AI, especially as it relates to job prospects and online safety. These findings are consistent with other research that has emerged over the past year, and evidence we’ve seen at the AI Committee.

“These concerns are justified. An IMF report estimates that up to 40% of jobs in Ireland could be affected by AI. While it is not yet clear whether the overall impact will be positive or negative, such a significant shift warrants broad and inclusive democratic engagement.

“We must ensure that we are prepared for the future. We want to see real, positive benefits from AI and a Citizens Assembly would play an important role in shaping future decisions,” concluded Deputy Geoghegan.