Tag: artificial intelligence

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‘expl[ai]n!’ workshop pioneers AI Integration in Local Government Operations

The “expl[ai]n!” workshop, a collaborative initiative by Dublin City Council, Smart Dublin and the CONNECT Centre, marks a pivotal step towards integrating AI technologies within local government operations. 

Facilitated in partnership with Mark Kelly, Founder of AI Ireland, this innovative workshop aimed to enhance AI awareness among local authority staff, fostering a comprehensive understanding of both Traditional AI and Generative AI technologies. 

Participants, drawn from a wide range of departments within the Dublin City Council, engaged in a deep dive into AI’s potential risks and rewards, focusing on its application within the context of local governance.

Goals and Objectives

The workshop was designed with the following objectives:

Educational Enhancement

Equip participants with a foundational understanding of AI, distinguishing between Traditional AI and Generative AI, and their respective use cases and functionalities.

Risk Assessment

Guide attendees through a critical examination of AI applications, identifying potential risks and ethical considerations in various scenarios.

Opportunity Exploration

Highlight and discuss the vast opportunities AI presents for improving local authority services, including efficiency gains, enhanced decision-making processes and personalised citizen services.

Challenge Identification

Address and strategise around the challenges and barriers to AI integration, from technical hurdles to public trust and data privacy concerns.

Workshop Structure

Introduction to AI in Governance

  • Overview of AI technologies and their relevance to local governance.
  • Introduction to the concepts of Traditional AI and Generative AI, illustrated with real-world examples.

AI Opportunities in Local Authorities

  • Detailed exploration of AI applications in various departments such as traffic management, public safety and citizen engagement. 
  • Discussion on how AI can transform public services, increase operational efficiency and drive innovation.

Risks and Ethical Considerations

  • Interactive session on identifying and assessing the risks associated with AI deployment, including data security, privacy and ethical implications. 
  • Case studies on AI misapplications and lessons learnt.

Breakout Sessions

  • Participants split into department-focused groups to discuss potential AI applications and challenges specific to their areas. 
  • Facilitated brainstorming on practical steps towards AI adoption.

Conclusion and Next Steps

  • Wrap-up discussion on key takeaways, establishing a roadmap for AI integration within the council’s operations. 
  • Encouragement towards a culture of innovation and continuous learning in AI technologies.

Key Outcomes

The “expl[ai]n!” workshop succeeded in:

Building AI Literacy

Participants gained a solid grounding in AI technologies, understanding their implications and potential within local government contexts.

Risk Awareness

The workshop fostered a nuanced perspective on the ethical and operational risks of AI, paving the way for responsible AI use.

Fostering Collaboration

By bringing together staff from various departments, the workshop encouraged cross-departmental collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Highlighting AI’s Potential

Attendees left with a clear vision of how AI can be harnessed to enhance public services and operational efficiency.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Dublin City Council, Smart Dublin, the CONNECT Centre and AI Ireland underscores a proactive approach towards embracing AI technologies. This initiative not only enhances AI literacy among local authority staff but also sets the stage for thoughtful, ethical AI integration, ensuring that Dublin remains at the forefront of smart city innovations.

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 this month. 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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Government 2

E138 Drago? Tudorache, Member of the European Parliament and VP at Renew Europe Group

Welcome to episode E138 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.

Today’s guest is Dragoș Tudorache, Member of the European Parliament and Vice-President of the Renew Europe Group. He is the LIBE rapporteur on the AI Act, and he sits on the Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET), the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE), the Committee of Inquiry to investigate the use of Pegasus and equivalent surveillance spyware (PEGA), the Subcommittee on Security and Defence (SEDE), and the European Parliament’s Delegation for relations with the United States (D-US). He was the Chair of the Special Committee on AI in the Digital Age (AIDA).

Beginning his career in 1997 as a judge in Romania. After working on justice and anticorruption at the European Commission Representation in Romania, supporting the country’s EU accession, he joined the Commission as an official and subsequently, qualified for leadership roles in EU institutions. He was elected to the European Parliament in 2019. Dragos’ current interests in the European Parliament include security and defence, AI and new technologies, transatlantic issues, the Republic of Moldova and internal affairs.

Topics include:

  • The vote on the AI Act and timeline for phased implementation
  • The AI Act’s aim to protect citizens from tech risks and ensuring rights
  • Balancing human protection with innovation enablement through various measures
  • How the AI evolution prompts legislative updates for deep fakes, democracy etc.
  • Why society needs preparation for an AI-driven future
  • Establishing coherence & protecting shared societal values
  • How the AI Act will ensure positive AI transformation, alleviating societal fears 
Subscribe to the AI Ireland Podcast

AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution

Accessible for purchase on Amazon, AI Ireland’s latest book “AI Unleashed: Navigating the AI Revolution,” is a must read. 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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Presentations

AI Tribes: The Dynamic world of AI and it’s implications in the industry

The dynamic world of Artificial Intelligence and its implications for various sectors was the topic of discussion as AI Ireland Founder Mark Kelly joined Accenture’s Paul Walsh and Dogpatch Labs Niamh Sterling at an insightful AI Tribes in Dublin last month.

The conversation delved into regulatory approaches to AI in different regions, comparing the EU’s stringent regulations with the US’s more innovative stance, and the UK’s sector-specific approach. Mark highlighted the EU’s focus on privacy by design and human-centric AI. 

“So there’s certain parameters that are being put in place,” he said. “From the EU perspective, they’ve got a real approach for privacy by design, human centric approach with AI and they want to be very specific where people are using that to provide kind of guardrails to that”

The discussion then shifted to technological advancements in AI, with a focus on the democratisation of AI tools and the need for differentiation in a competitive landscape. Paul emphasized the importance of data and domain expertise, while Mark highlighted the potential of leveraging proprietary data for competitive advantage.

Both Paul and Mark also emphasised the transformative potential of AI across various industries, citing examples from customer service to healthcare. Mark shared insights into how everyday AI tools are enhancing productivity.

“From a business perspective, being a solopreneur, working in an SME or a large enterprise, there’s never a better time to be  productive,” he said. “The tools that you can take off the shelf that you can purchase now will genuinely save you 5 to 10 hours per week productivity with no issue whatsoever.”

As the discussion wrapped up, both speakers expressed optimism about Ireland’s future in AI, highlighting the country’s strong foundation, innovative initiatives like Accenture’s Gen AI Studio, and the potential for startups to thrive in the AI ecosystem.

In conclusion, they provided valuable insights into the regulatory, technological and societal implications of AI, highlighting the opportunities and challenges ahead as we navigate the evolving AI landscape.

“If you ask the general public is, they don’t trust AI,” Mark highlighted. “So if you start with lack of trust, you can’t really build a strong business model on that. So when you start from there and you build it up, that becomes better.

“What I think we need to be cognizant of though, is having some type of balance. With the AI EU Act, they’ve really looked for that balance. Now, they can say: listen, look at the introductions of AI, come to our sandbox, try it out.  We’ll give you feedback. Let’s put it into practice.”

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

Microsoft Introduces AI Skills Initiatives for Rural Areas in Ireland

Microsoft has unveiled plans to introduce ‘AI Skill-Up-A-Thons’ in rural communities nationwide, alongside AI masterclasses tailored for businesses in the Kerry region.

The rural upskilling initiatives aim to furnish individuals with fundamental knowledge, skills, and proficiencies in Artificial Intelligence.

Participants completing the complimentary four-hour course will receive an industry-recognized Career Essentials Certificate in Generative AI and will be granted access to LinkedIn Premium, aiding those seeking to forge a career in AI.

Scheduled courses will be held in various counties such as Cavan, Galway, Kilkenny, Mayo, and Tipperary in the upcoming weeks, with additional locations set to be disclosed in the months ahead

The inaugural ‘AI Skill-Up-A-Thon’ took place at the Connected Hub in Knockmore, Co Mayo, and was attended by Minister for Trade Promotion, Digital, and Company Regulation, Dara Calleary.

“AI tools and technology hold significant potential for reshaping how we operate and conduct business,” he said.

“To fully leverage their advantages and realize the objectives of our National AI Strategy, individuals and businesses need to cultivate sought-after AI skills and capabilities.“

The AI courses are delivered in collaboration with Fastrack into Information Technology (FIT) and enjoy the backing of local authorities, education and training boards, and the extensive network of Connected Hubs nationwide.

“We aspire to empower individuals of all demographics and backgrounds with the skills and insights needed to thrive in an AI-driven economy through these novel AI learning pathways,” said James O’Connor, Microsoft Ireland Site Leader and Vice President Microsoft Global Operations Service Centre.

“Furthermore, our forthcoming AI masterclasses, developed in partnership with the RDI Hub in Kerry, will aid businesses in acquiring the tools and expertise required to swiftly embrace AI and foster future growth.“

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 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!

Categories
Education

E137 Luca Longo, Professor, AI & Cognitive Load at TU Dublin

Welcome to episode E137 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.

Today’s guest is Luca Longo, Professor, AI & Cognitive Load at TU Dublin. Winner of the AI Person of the Year at the 2023 AI Awards, Luca was recognised for his innovative research in XAI. Luca’s work focuses on making AI models more interpretable and transparent which has the potential to impact human-AI interaction, responsible AI development, human capacity, international engagement and the economy.

Luca will be part of the 2nd World Conference on Explainable Artificial Intelligence which takes place in Valletta, Malta on 17-19 July 2024. The conference aims to bring together researchers, academics and professionals, promoting the sharing and discussing of knowledge, new perspectives, experiences and innovations in XAI. Find out more at xaiworldconference.com.

Topics include:

  • His background in AI Research and XAI
  • Examples of his work with XAI such as how Deep Learning analyzes EEG for brain disorders
  • How the research addresses brain disorders, emphasising tangible needs and cognitive load
  • The goal of the ‘World Conference on XAI’ to bridge AI understanding
  • How to get involved with the Conference in Malta on 17-19 July 2024
Subscribe to the AI Ireland Podcast

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!

Categories
News

EU Parliament approves the AI Act in landslide vote

In a historic development, the European Union Parliament has endorsed the world’s inaugural comprehensive set of regulatory guidelines designed to govern the swiftly evolving domain of Artificial Intelligence. 

The EU AI Act was approved at the Parliament’s Wednesday session, with 523 votes in favour, 46 against and 49 votes not cast. This monumental decision follows extensive negotiations and marks a notable stride forward in addressing the potential risks and benefits associated with AI technology.

The EU AI Act, originating in 2021, is being celebrated as a groundbreaking legislative framework aimed at fostering responsible advancement and utilisation of AI systems. Through the categorisation of AI technologies according to their risk levels, ranging from “unacceptable” to low hazard, the act seeks to strike a delicate balance between promoting innovation and safeguarding fundamental rights.

Thierry Breton, the European Commissioner for the internal market, said: “Europe is NOW a global standard-setter in AI,” highlighting the EU’s dedication to shaping the trajectory of AI governance. The adoption of the AI Act represents a significant milestone for the EU, positioning it as a frontrunner in establishing ethical guidelines for emerging technologies.

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, has stressed the pivotal role of the act in fostering innovation while ensuring accountability. She has lauded it as “trailblazing,” recognising its role in seamlessly integrating AI into existing legislative frameworks.

Nevertheless, the path to effective AI regulation does not conclude with the enactment of the act. Implementation poses a substantial challenge, as noted by Dragos Tudorache, a key figure in EU negotiations, who acknowledges that the true test lies in translating regulatory principles into actionable policies.

One pivotal aspect of the AI Act is its prohibition of certain high-risk uses of AI, such as social scoring systems and manipulative techniques. Through the imposition of stringent rules and disclosure requirements, the act aims to tackle concerns regarding the misuse of AI, including the proliferation of deepfakes and disinformation.

While the EU’s proactive stance on AI regulation has garnered praise from experts and industry stakeholders, it has also triggered debates and criticisms. Some EU nations, including Germany and France, have pushed for less restrictive regulations, citing fears that stringent measures could hinder innovation and competitiveness with global tech giants.

Critics of the AI Act have expressed concerns about its enforcement mechanisms and the reliance on self-assessment by companies to determine the risk level of their AI systems. They argue that robust regulatory oversight is necessary to ensure compliance and safeguard individuals’ rights amidst the rapid advancement of AI technologies.

Nevertheless, the adoption of the AI Act represents a significant milestone in international AI regulation. Legal professionals and industry experts view it as a blueprint for other nations to emulate, establishing a precedent for responsible AI governance in the digital era.

Looking forward, the effective implementation of the AI Act will necessitate collaboration among policymakers, businesses, and civil society to address emerging challenges and opportunities. 

As AI continues to shape our society and economy, it is crucial to strike a balance between innovation and ethical considerations, ensuring that AI serves the greater good while upholding fundamental rights and values.

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!