The European Union recently adopted the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act on 21 May, aimed at regulating AI to protect individuals from potential risks while promoting innovation. The implementation of the rules encompasses banning AI tools deemed hazardous to humanity and requiring high-risk AI providers to conduct risk assessments to ensure compliance with the law before releasing their products.
The Act also prohibits the use of AI for predictive policing and systems that use biometric data to determine an individual’s race, religion, or sexual orientation. Additionally, real-time facial recognition in public spaces is banned, with exceptions for law enforcement, contingent upon approval from a judicial authority before deployment.
Ireland’s Department of Enterprise, Trade, and Employment is spearheading the country’s implementation of the AI Act and is seeking feedback from stakeholders to inform their efforts. Minister of State for Digital and Company Regulation, Dara Calleary, emphasized the importance of a collective approach to meet the ambitious implementation timeline. Interested parties are encouraged to participate in the public consultation, with submissions accepted until 16 July.
To enhance Ireland’s position as a leading Digital Economy, stakeholders are invited to share their views on how the Act could align with existing digital markets, services, and infrastructure. The consultation document is available on the Department of Enterprise website for reference.
