AI to Require Major Reskilling for 64% of Irish Jobs, Report Warns

Ireland faces a substantial challenge in adapting to the artificial intelligence revolution, with research indicating that approximately 64% of jobs will necessitate significant reskilling. A new report from the business group Ibec highlights the urgent need for a national strategy to address this impending shift, warning that failure to do so could prevent Ireland from fully realizing its long-term economic potential in the AI era.

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We are just at the precipice of the change happening as a result of AI. As a country, we cannot be passive or hold back our intent or resources in supporting the transition required to meet the opportunities and challenges that will come with it.

The study, which received support from Accenture, underscores the critical importance of workforce adaptation. It suggests that Ireland's current talent model is outdated and requires reform. The report cautions that without a deliberate focus on lifelong learning and proactive reskilling initiatives, a significant portion of the country's competitive advantage is at risk.

Kara McGann, Head of Skills & Social Policy at Ibec, emphasized the early stage of this transformative change. "We are just at the precipice of the change happening as a result of AI," she stated. McGann urged a proactive national approach, asserting, "As a country, we cannot be passive or hold back our intent or resources in supporting the transition required to meet the opportunities and challenges that will come with it."

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Employers, education providers, government and industry all have a role to play in helping people and businesses adapt to rapid change. Supporting greater AI adoption across the economy is essential if Ireland is to remain competitive and unlock new opportunities for growth.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless acknowledged the report's timely warning. He stressed that harnessing AI's benefits will demand a collective effort involving employers, educational institutions, government, and industry. "Supporting greater AI adoption across the economy is essential if Ireland is to remain competitive and unlock new opportunities for growth," Lawless remarked. He expressed his commitment to collaborating with employers and skills providers to ensure Ireland is well-equipped to benefit from the AI revolution.

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I look forward to working closely with employers and skills providers to ensure the right skills responses are in place and that Ireland is well positioned to benefit from the AI revolution.