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Presentations

Unleashing AI: Navigating the Future of Innovation and Ethics

At the Host in Ireland 2024 Global Partner Kickoff, AI expert and author Mark Kelly captivated attendees with a keynote on the dual nature of generative AI, balancing its transformative potential against ethical considerations. 

His insights into how AI can revolutionise industries while necessitating careful ethical practices resonated deeply, sparking engaging discussions among the 58 partners and 116 delegates from leading companies and six countries.

Taunya, Marketing Director at Host in Ireland, praised Mark’s presentation for its informative and engaging nature, reflecting the positive reception from an audience keen on understanding AI’s future applications and challenges.

Mark’s contribution not only aligned with Host in Ireland’s mission to promote Ireland as a prime data hosting location but also encouraged a thoughtful dialogue on leveraging AI responsibly, leaving a lasting impact on the event’s participants and reinforcing Ireland’s significant role in the global data hosting landscape.

Testimonial

“Mark Kelly delivered an exceptional keynote at yesterday’s Host in Ireland Kick Off Event, captivating every attendee with his profound insights into the future of AI. His involvement not only enriched our understanding but also sparked a lively, informative dialogue that resonated with all present. We are immensely grateful for his contribution and thank him for being such an outstanding speaker—a true highlight of our event.”

AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

Accessible for purchase on Amazon, AI Ireland’s latest book “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” is your must read for 2024. For executives, policy architects or technology aficionados seeking to make sense of the intricate world of AI, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution” is your essential handbook. Available on Amazon Kindle or hard copy, this book furnishes you with the expertise and instruments required to employ AI both effectively and ethically.

Book an AI Presentation with AI Ireland today

Discover tailored presentations designed to meet the unique needs of your industry. Gain invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI technologies, ensuring your organisation stays ahead of the curve. Equip your team and stakeholders with the knowledge they need to confidently embrace the future.

Don’t miss the chance to enlighten your team and explore how innovation is positively impacting your industry. Secure your presentation now!

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Generative AI

Getting Generative AI ready E01: Introduction featuring GlobalLogic & AWS

Welcome to episode one in a very special “Getting Generative AI Ready” series of the AI Ireland podcast, the show that explores the applications and research of Data Science, Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence on the island of Ireland.

Our mission is to increase the use of AI for the benefit of our society, our competitiveness and everyone living in Ireland.

In the first episode of this five-part podcast series, we’re joined by Mark Dunleavy, Head of Commerical at AWS Ireland and Declan Fay, Head of Strategic Business Development & Ireland Country Lead at GlobalLogic.

In this podcast, Declan and Mark discuss the significance of the current era in data and AI, highlighting the rapid evolution of Generative AI. They emphasise the challenges organisations face in data transformation and the need for a shift from monolithic approaches to handling highly distributed data. 

The conversation stresses the importance of educating individuals about Generative AI and demystifying its origins, showcasing examples from companies like Amazon and Ryanair. 

Mark emphasises the incremental nature of the AI journey, with Generative AI being the latest manifestation. They discuss the vital role of a solid data strategy, emphasising that data transformation and AI adoption should be addressed in parallel. 

The importance of understanding regulations and ensuring compliance is also highlighted, with the recognition that innovation opportunities arise from effective data governance.

They conclude by emphasising the importance of organisations understanding their data and being ready for the opportunities presented by Generative AI. 

The series aims to provide actionable insights to help organisations navigate and leverage these advancements, addressing challenges such as data access entitlements and the alignment of data strategy with business strategy. 

Overall, the conversation emphasises the need for a comprehensive and strategic approach to data and AI to achieve successful outcomes.

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AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

Accessible for purchase on Amazon, AI Ireland’s latest book “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” is your must read for 2024. For executives, policy architects or technology aficionados seeking to make sense of the intricate world of AI, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution” is your essential handbook. Available on Amazon Kindle or hard copy, this book furnishes you with the expertise and instruments required to employ AI both effectively and ethically.

Book an AI Presentation with AI Ireland today

Discover tailored presentations designed to meet the unique needs of your industry. Gain invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI technologies, ensuring your organisation stays ahead of the curve. Equip your team and stakeholders with the knowledge they need to confidently embrace the future.

Don’t miss the chance to enlighten your team and explore how innovation is positively impacting your industry. Secure your presentation now!

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News

EU AI Act Final Draft: Navigating the AI Act’s Impact on Organisations

The unveiling of the final text of the AI Act marks a pivotal moment in the regulatory landscape for Artificial Intelligence. With the Act swiftly progressing, organisations need to promptly adapt their AI strategies to meet the new legal and ethical standards.

In this article, AI Ireland delve into the critical aspects of the AI Act, highlighting recent significant changes and offering strategic insights to ensure organisations are both compliant and successful in the evolving AI environment.

Prohibited AI Systems

The final text of the AI Act prohibits various AI practices to safeguard against manipulation and harm. Noteworthy prohibitions include the use of AI systems employing subliminal techniques or exploiting vulnerabilities based on age, disability or social situations. 

Additionally, biometric categorisation systems inferring sensitive information and real-time remote biometric identification in public spaces for law enforcement are restricted. The Act also addresses concerns related to profiling and the creation of facial recognition databases through untargeted scraping.

High-Risk AI Systems

A significant change in the final text is the classification of AI systems as high-risk based on specific criteria, with a particular emphasis on profiling natural persons. Providers must undergo an AI Impact Assessment and register their systems in the EU database. Notably, the Act applies not only to providers placing AI systems on the market but also to deployers of general-purpose AI models, regardless of their location.

General Purpose AI

The AI Act introduces General Purpose AI models (GPAI models) as a new addition, defining them as models displaying significant generality and capable of performing a wide range of tasks. Notably, the Act exempts AI models used for research and development activities before market release. GPAI models, especially those with systemic risk, are subject to specific obligations, including standardised evaluations, risk assessments, and cooperation with authorities.

Deep Fakes

In the context of elections and beyond, the Act addresses deep fakes, requiring disclosure when an AI system generates or manipulates image, audio or video content. Notably, exemptions exist for authorised law enforcement use and artistic, creative, satirical or fictional works.

Human Oversight and Employer Obligations

The Act emphasises the importance of human oversight proportional to the risks and autonomy of AI systems. Employers deploying high-risk AI systems must inform workers and their representatives, aligning with EU and national laws and practices.

Codes of Practice

The AI Office plays a pivotal role in developing codes of practice to support the AI Act’s application. Involving various stakeholders, including AI model providers, the codes aim to ensure compliance with specific articles, focusing on key performance indicators and the interests of relevant parties.

Testing AI Systems

The AI Act’s final draft outlines conditions for testing high-risk AI systems outside regulatory sandboxes, emphasising ethical guidelines, informed consent and liability for damages caused during testing. SMEs and startups are given priority access to regulatory sandboxes.

Third-Party Agreements and Technical Documentation

Providers of high-risk AI systems must have written agreements with third parties, similar to GDPR obligations. Technical documentation requirements differ for SMEs and startups, providing a simplified submission process.

Fines and Timelines

Non-compliance with the AI Act incurs fines based on the severity of violations. The Act becomes applicable to prohibited systems in six months, GPAI models in 12 months and high-risk AI systems in 36 months.

Strategic Steps for Organisations

Organisations must proactively align their AI systems with the AI Act’s ethical and legal standards. Key steps include rigorous evaluations, robust documentation, disclosure measures for AI-generated content, investment in human oversight, transparent communication with employees, meticulous data governance, preparation for compliance costs, staying informed and strategic planning for timelines.

Mark Kelly, Founder at AI Ireland said the AI Act signifies a crucial shift towards responsible AI governance, urging organisations to embrace ethical AI aligned with societal value.

“I welcome the final text of the AI Act as a significant stride towards responsible AI governance. This Act represents a pivotal shift in our approach to AI, blending legal compliance with ethical responsibility, ” he said.

“It is vital for organisations to recognise that this is not just about meeting regulatory requirements but about embracing a culture of ethical AI use that aligns with our societal values. The Act’s emphasis on prohibited and high-risk AI systems, along with the introduction of general-purpose AI models and provisions on deep fakes, underscores the need for a comprehensive and forward-thinking AI strategy. 

“Organisations must act swiftly and strategically to adapt, ensuring their AI systems are not only compliant but also ethically aligned and socially responsible. This is an opportunity for businesses to lead in the era of AI by championing transparency, accountability, and human-centric AI practices.” 

The AI Act presents a paradigm shift in the regulatory landscape, requiring organizations to navigate multifaceted challenges and opportunities. By embracing a proactive approach, organisations can ensure compliance, maintain ethical standards and position themselves for success in the dynamic AI-driven regulatory environment. As the Act shapes the future of AI governance, strategic adaptation becomes imperative for organisations to thrive in this new era.

AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

Accessible for purchase on Amazon, AI Ireland’s latest book “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” is your must read for 2024. For executives, policy architects or technology aficionados seeking to make sense of the intricate world of AI, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution” is your essential handbook. Available on Amazon Kindle or hard copy, this book furnishes you with the expertise and instruments required to employ AI both effectively and ethically.

Book an AI Presentation with AI Ireland today

Discover tailored presentations designed to meet the unique needs of your industry. Gain invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI technologies, ensuring your organisation stays ahead of the curve. Equip your team and stakeholders with the knowledge they need to confidently embrace the future.

Don’t miss the chance to enlighten your team and explore how innovation is positively impacting your industry. Secure your presentation now!

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News

Ireland’s AI Advisory Council Convenes for the First Time

This past Wednesday, January 17th 2024, marked a pivotal moment in Ireland’s journey towards the integration and ethical application of Artificial Intelligence. 

The Government’s AI Advisory Council convened for its inaugural meeting, embarking on a mission to steer the nation’s AI policy with a human-centric and trustworthy approach.

Established to offer independent expert advice, the council is set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of AI in Ireland. It aims to build public trust and promote the development of AI solutions that are centered around people’s needs and well-being.

Roles and Responsibilities of the AI Advisory Council

The council’s primary role involves providing expert guidance, insights and recommendations to the Government on specific AI-related matters. In addition, the council will develop and deliver its own workplan, offering advice on various aspects of AI policy.

Diverse Expertise on the Council

Comprising members from diverse fields such as academia, business, law, security, social sciences, economics and civil society, the council offers a rich tapestry of perspectives. These members were carefully selected by the Government following a public call for expressions of interest and they serve in a voluntary capacity, meeting a minimum of three times a year.

Government’s Vision for AI

Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Dara Calleary, expressed his ambition for Ireland to lead in the use of AI. “Our goal is to benefit our people through a human-centered and ethical approach to AI adoption and use,” he stated. This highlighted the foundational elements present in our National AI Strategy.

Dr. Patricia Scanlon’s Leadership

Dr. Patricia Scanlon, Ireland’s AI Ambassador since 2022, takes the helm as the chair of the AI Advisory Council. “I am excited to guide the council in offering timely, impactful recommendations and advice to the Government,” said Dr. Scanlon. Her leadership is expected to bring a strategic focus to the council’s efforts, particularly in demystifying AI technology and providing foresight on emerging trends and challenges.

Mark Kelly, Founder of AI Ireland commented on the development stating: “As the founder of AI Ireland, I applaud the establishment of the Government’s AI Advisory Council. The diverse backgrounds of the council members promise a comprehensive approach to AI policy. This initiative aligns perfectly with our ethos at AI Ireland, advocating for a human-centred and ethical application of AI. 

“The council’s focus on building public trust and formulating person-centred AI policies is crucial for sustainable and beneficial AI adoption. Under Dr. Patricia Scanlon’s leadership, the council will provide invaluable guidance, ensuring Ireland’s position as a leader in ethical AI usage. Their work will undoubtedly contribute to the responsible and innovative growth of AI in Ireland, benefiting our society and economy alike.”

This inaugural meeting of the AI Advisory Council is a significant step towards harnessing AI for the common good. AI Ireland eagerly anticipates the council’s contributions to the nation’s AI strategy and policies.

Interested in being trained in AI? Find out more about our AI in public sector training here.

 

AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

Accessible for purchase on Amazon, AI Ireland’s latest book “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” is your must read for 2024. For executives, policy architects or technology aficionados seeking to make sense of the intricate world of AI, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution” is your essential handbook. Available on Amazon Kindle or hard copy, this book furnishes you with the expertise and instruments required to employ AI both effectively and ethically.

Book an AI Presentation with AI Ireland today

Discover tailored presentations designed to meet the unique needs of your industry. Gain invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI technologies, ensuring your organisation stays ahead of the curve. Equip your team and stakeholders with the knowledge they need to confidently embrace the future.

Don’t miss the chance to enlighten your team and explore how innovation is positively impacting your industry. Secure your presentation now!

featured image credited to rte.ie

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News

Key Considerations in Accelerating AI Adoption for Businesses

Businesses aiming to harness the advantages of cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence tools, such as automating repetitive tasks, enhanced data analytics, reduced human error and improved decision-making speed, are encountering obstacles hindering rapid AI adoption.

A late 2023 survey of 120 UK senior AI/machine learning decision-makers by research and media firm Foundry and technology consulting firm Searce revealed that less than 40% of organisations had successfully deployed an AI project.

Foremost among the barriers identified was the surge in cybersecurity threats, with 58% of respondents in the Foundry/Searce study citing data security as a principal impediment to AI adoption.

Mark Kelly, Founder of AI Ireland, commented that the research highlighted a lack of comprehension regarding the security vulnerabilities of AI applications, particularly those utilising large language models.

He emphasised that these vulnerabilities are not well-understood by most application developers and security testers. Mark suggested that, until there is improved awareness and better tools for auditing and defence, some Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) are cautioning against launching AI projects due to potential additional risks.

According to Mark Kelly, an essential proactive measure for companies is to enhance their understanding of how AI functions. He anticipates the emergence of dedicated security training and certifications for AI in the coming years. However, in the interim, he recommends internalising this knowledge within data scientists and individuals with expertise in security and AI.

Given the nascent state of tooling in this domain, organisations should primarily concentrate on developing processes to effectively threat model their AI applications, identifying and mitigating unique risks associated with AI.

Overcoming Challenges in Maximizing AI Return on Investment

One significant obstacle hindering the realisation of AI’s full potential is the lack of clear use cases. According to Mark Kelly, who recently authored ‘AI Unleashed, Navigating the AI Revolution As a Business Executive’ and Founder of AI Ireland, many businesses struggle to identify organisational use cases that will yield substantial return on investment (ROI).

He emphasised the critical role of prioritisation in successful AI adoption, noting that selecting an overly impactful use case can lead to doubts across the organization in case of failures. Conversely, opting for a use case with minimal impact fails to garner momentum. Achieving the right balance between complexity and impact is crucial for widespread AI adoption within an organisation.

To address this challenge, Mark suggests establishing an AI council with a focused approach to prioritising use cases. Involving representatives from various organizational departments in the council ensures a comprehensive understanding of where AI can make the most significant impact.

Many organisations express interest in leveraging AI applications but struggle to identify areas where it can add substantial value, according to Mark. He notes a prevailing sense of urgency akin to a “gold rush,” reminiscent of the early blockchain days, where organisations are eager to adopt AI without a thoughtful consideration of its applicability to specific use cases.

Talent shortage in the AI field is another significant barrier. With rapid technological changes, organisations find it challenging to attract and retain top talent. Mark emphasises the importance of investing in talent acquisition and implementing training programs to enhance the proficiency of existing employees in AI. This proactive approach strengthens the talent pipeline, facilitating smoother AI initiatives.

Furthermore, low model maturity poses a challenge, particularly in generative AI models. Mark highlights the risk of “hallucinations” where AI models generate false information not grounded in real data or events. In industries like healthcare and financial services, where accuracy is paramount, these hallucinations raise caution among early adopters. Mark suggests that until AI models mature, companies aiming for rapid AI adoption must navigate this challenge cautiously.

Navigating Regulatory Challenges in AI Adoption

The landscape of AI adoption encounters a significant hurdle in the form of regulatory policies and compliance efforts. According to Mark Kelly, Founder of AI Ireland, the early stage of AI adoption has regulators in the process of evaluating its implications.  Government and regulatory bodies are still in the early phases of formulating guidelines that will shape the broader adoption of AI across companies.

This regulatory uncertainty has prompted caution among companies, particularly those in highly regulated industries. Many are inclined to adopt a “wait-and-see” approach, anticipating the direction regulators take. As Mark highlights, this cautious stance slows down adoption, as companies are hesitant to implement AI solutions that may require unwinding in the face of substantial regulatory changes.

Staying abreast of AI developments is imperative for businesses navigating this regulatory landscape. Mark underscores that AI adoption is not a one-time event but an ongoing mindset shift, where organisations approach all processes with an AI-first lens. Keeping up with the latest advancements becomes crucial for the success of an AI adoption journey.

In essence, as regulatory frameworks evolve, companies must remain vigilant, adjusting their AI strategies in accordance with emerging policies. This adaptability is essential for ensuring a smooth and compliant AI adoption journey in the evolving regulatory landscape.

AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

Accessible for purchase on Amazon, AI Ireland’s latest book “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” is your must read for 2024. For executives, policy architects or technology aficionados seeking to make sense of the intricate world of AI, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution” is your essential handbook. Available on Amazon Kindle or hard copy, this book furnishes you with the expertise and instruments required to employ AI both effectively and ethically.

Book an AI Presentation with AI Ireland today

Discover tailored presentations designed to meet the unique needs of your industry. Gain invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI technologies, ensuring your organisation stays ahead of the curve. Equip your team and stakeholders with the knowledge they need to confidently embrace the future.

Don’t miss the chance to enlighten your team and explore how innovation is positively impacting your industry. Secure your presentation now!

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News

Navigating the Evolving AI Landscape in 2024

Entering 2024, the dominance of Artificial Intelligence becomes the central focus, presenting both opportunities and complexities. While 2023 showcased significant advancements, it also unveiled pivotal questions and challenges demanding our complete attention. In this article, we delve into several essential AI trends worth monitoring throughout 2024.

1. Generative AI and LLMs

Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) emerged as frontrunners in 2023, commanding attention for their transformative potential. Their expanding influence promises to revolutionise user experiences across diverse industries throughout 2024. These technological wonders are pivotal for increased productivity and innovation but as their capabilities expand, the responsibility for ethical implementation becomes increasingly urgent.

2. Impact on Employment Dynamics

The direction in which AI is evolving predicts a significant change in the job market. While it enhances human roles across various sectors, the potential threat of job displacement necessitates proactive steps and forward-thinking strategies. Effectively managing this shift in employment dynamics requires focused attention to mitigate negative outcomes within the general public.

3. Advancements in Vision Intelligence

Visual AI stands at the brink of monumental strides, poised to comprehend and interpret visual information with heightened accuracy. Its applications span diverse domains like healthcare, autonomous vehicles and surveillance. However, the potential for deepfakes and privacy concerns necessitates robust ethical frameworks to steer this power responsibly.

4. Cybersecurity Challenges

The accelerated pace of AI development poses a formidable challenge in the realm of cybersecurity. Cybercriminals exploit generative AI capabilities, elevating threats such as phishing and misinformation campaigns. Building resilient defence mechanisms and agile countermeasures to combat evolving cyber threats becomes imperative.

5. Government Regulation and Legislation

The surging significance of AI propels governments worldwide into the realm of policymaking, aiming for a delicate balance between fostering innovation and ensuring responsible AI utilisation. The discourse around setting global standards underscores the need for collaborative endeavors among nations to harness AI’s potential while averting unintended consequences.

While these trends present unprecedented opportunities, they also unravel a fabric of ethical, societal and regulatory concerns. Responsible and ethical use of AI becomes crucial to navigate these upcoming advancements effectively.

As we progress through 2024, a balanced approach is essential, harnessing the potential of AI while actively confronting its inherent challenges. Collaborative initiatives involving industry leaders, policymakers, and experts are pivotal in charting a path where AI drives progress while maintaining ethical standards and societal welfare.

AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

AI Ireland are excited to unveil our new book, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” which is now accessible for purchase on Amazon. For executives, policy architects, or technology aficionados seeking to make sense of the intricate world of AI, “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution” is your essential handbook. Now available on Amazon Kindle or hard copy, this book furnishes you with the expertise and instruments required to employ AI both effectively and ethically.

Book an AI Presentation today

AI Ireland offers tailored presentations catering to your industry’s needs, providing invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI technologies. Stay ahead of the curve and equip your organisation with the knowledge it needs to confidently embrace the future.

Don’t miss the opportunity to enlighten your team and stakeholders. Book a presentation today and explore how innovation is positively impacting your industry.