AI Forum 2024

2021’s AI - Here for Good strategy was founded on three core principles: adopting a human-centric approach to the application of AI; staying open and adaptable to new innovations; and ensuring good governance to build trust and confidence for innovation to flourish. The 2023 progress report outlined the actions taken to date, however, given the significant changes since this strategy was launched, there are some additional actions already under way and others being planned for the coming months. When it comes to AI, the pace of change is now faster than we have ever seen before. What transformative effects will it have on organisations?

The release of ChatGPT at the end of 2022 has brought huge focus and meant that AI has really entered the public consciousness and discourse. In March 2024, the European Parliament adopted the Artificial Intelligence Act – the first-ever legal framework on AI, which addresses the risks of AI and positions Europe to play a leading role globally. 2024 has also seen the creation of Ireland’s AI Advisory Council, independent of government, made up of fourteen experts.

This conference will bring together stakeholders to examine all the key issues. When it comes to AI for our public services, addressing the skills shortage will be crucial. Other challenges include regulating AI amid the rapid pace of evolution; bridging the gap between the public and an understanding of AI; issues around trust; managing expectations and the need to focus on supporting and augmenting human capabilities rather than replacing. There are also critical questions around privacy, security and the digital divide. The conference will also look at the role of data in AI, embedding AI into existing systems and business workflows and the transformational benefits and opportunities AI will bring to organisations and citizens. Above all, it will examine how we can deliver the principles of AI - Here for Good: AI that is trustworthy, people-centred and ethical.