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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 
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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 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.

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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

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!

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News

European Committees support EU AI Act in anticipation of Full Parliament Vote

The civil liberties (LIBE) and internal market (IMCO) committees of the European Parliament have overwhelmingly supported a draft legislation outlining a risk-based framework for the regulation of Artificial intelligence applications. 

In a morning vote, the committees favored the compromise reached with EU Member States in the extensive three-way ‘trilogue’ talks held at the end of 2023, with a vote of 71-8 (with seven abstentions).

The EU AI Act, initially proposed by the Commission in April 2021, establishes regulations for AI developers based on their models’ capabilities or intended applications. It encompasses a list of prohibited AI uses, such as social scoring and outlines rules for specific high-risk applications in areas like education, health or employment, including obligations related to data quality, testing and risk assessment. Moreover, it imposes transparency requirements on general-purpose AIs, deepfakes and AI chatbots.

The majority of AI applications are categorised as ‘low risk’ and fall outside the law’s scope. The plan also includes provisions for the creation of regulatory sandboxes at the national level, allowing developers to develop, train and test risky applications under supervised real-world conditions.

While the Commission’s initial proposal for an AI rulebook did not generate much attention three years ago, recent advancements in generative AI have thrust the plan into the global spotlight, causing divisions among EU lawmakers. MEPs sought to amend the proposal to include powerful general-purpose AIs, while some Member States, led by France, advocated for a regulatory exemption for advanced AIs to foster national champions.

After marathon trilogue talks in December 2023, a compromise text was reached, incorporating provisions for general-purpose AIs. However, some governments continued to express opposition. A critical Member State vote earlier this month paved the way for the likely adoption of the AI rulebook in a few months, though the draft law still faces a plenary vote in the parliament and a final Council endorsement.

The phased rollout of the Act is expected to impose legal requirements on developers within the scope between 2024 and 2027. Specific timelines include nine months for a code of practice, 12 months for rules on general-purpose AI, and full applicability 24 months after entry into force. High-risk systems have an extended application timeframe of 36 months.

Despite the anticipated passage in the parliament plenary vote, opposition persists, with the Pirate Party, for instance, declining to support what its MEPs deem a “flawed” law. Pirate Party MEPs have expressed concerns about the potential for permanent facial surveillance in real-time and the normalisation of a culture of mistrust in a high-tech surveillance state.

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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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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EU strikes groundbreaking agreement for the AI Act

 

European Union policymakers have made history by spearheading comprehensive legislation to regulate Artificial Intelligence, marking a significant milestone in global tech governance. 

The AI Act sets a precedent for EU nations aiming to harness AI’s potential benefits, while safeguarding against potential risks across societal and economic realms.

This groundbreaking law addresses various concerns surrounding AI, such as its impact on job automation, the proliferation of misinformation online and potential threats to national security. While the law awaits final approval, its core framework has been established, signaling a strategic move by European policymakers.

A key focus of the AI Act is regulating the riskiest applications of AI by both private entities and governments, especially in law enforcement and critical service operations. Transparency requirements are proposed for major AI system developers, including those behind widely used technologies like the ChatGPT chatbot. Mandates also aim to ensure clear disclosure when AI generates manipulated content like “deepfakes.”

Moreover, restrictions on facial recognition software use by authorities and potential fines for non-compliance highlight the law’s stringent approach toward mitigating AI-related risks. However, the effectiveness of these regulations remains a subject of debate, with some provisions expected to take up to two years to fully implement – considerable time in the rapidly evolving landscape of AI development.

This legislative breakthrough in Brussels follows exhaustive negotiations spanning multiple days, reflecting the complexity and significance of regulating AI. The law’s passage necessitates further stages of approval within the European Council and Parliament, comprising representatives from the 27 member countries.

The urgency to regulate AI intensified following the global sensation caused by AI models like ChatGPT. Beyond Europe, nations such as the United States have initiated executive orders focusing on AI’s national security implications, while others like China have implemented limited restrictions on AI-related data usage.

EU’s proactive stance in AI regulation dates back to 2018, culminating in the AI Act’s proposal in 2021. The Act’s subsequent revisions align with emerging technological advancements, emphasising a risk-based approach to regulate AI applications posing potential harm.

However, the EU’s internal debates mirror the broader global challenge of balancing innovation incentives with the necessity to regulate new AI systems comprehensively. Concerns about potential handicaps for European startups compared to tech giants from other regions have surfaced amidst these discussions.

The impact of these regulations extends beyond major tech corporations to encompass various sectors such as education, healthcare, and banking. As AI increasingly permeates diverse industries and governmental functions, the need for clear, enforceable guidelines becomes paramount.

While hailed as a significant step, uncertainties loom around enforcement and the law’s practical implementation across the EU’s member states. Skepticism exists regarding the EU’s track record in uniformly enforcing previous legislations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

The AI Act’s global ramifications are evident, as it could influence international discussions on AI governance and shape future global standards. European Commissioner Thierry Breton emphasised the Act’s role in setting global benchmarks for trustworthy AI.

This legislation also reflects the EU’s commitment to fostering responsible AI development, evident in their investments in AI research and the promotion of voluntary commitments by businesses ahead of the law’s full applicability.

The AI Act represents a pivotal moment not only for the EU but also for the global tech landscape, steering conversations toward responsible and transparent AI deployment while ensuring fundamental rights and safety. As AI continues to evolve, the Act stands as a pioneering effort in setting ethical guidelines for its widespread integration into our society and economy.

Moreover, the EU’s strides in AI regulation could significantly influence other global powers’ approaches toward managing the unprecedented impact of AI technology on our lives.

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.