Artificial intelligence is advancing at an unprecedented pace, transforming industries and challenging our perceptions of work, regulation, and ethics.
Welcome to The AI Six Podcast. In today’s episode, Dr Susan Leavy, a lecturer at University College Dublin and a researcher with the Insight Centre for Data Analytics, shares her insights on AI’s rapid evolution, its impact on the workforce, and the importance of ethical considerations.
AI: From Experimentation to Everyday Reality
Dr Leavy’s journey with AI began decades ago when it was still considered an experimental branch of philosophy. Today, AI is no longer confined to academia—it is embedded in our daily lives. From language models like ChatGPT to AI-driven financial services, the technology is now accessible on a massive scale. This accessibility has shifted the conversation from curiosity to practical implementation, raising new ethical and regulatory challenges.
The Impact of AI on the Workforce
One of the biggest concerns surrounding AI is its effect on employment. Headlines often warn of AI replacing jobs, but Dr Leavy offers a more balanced perspective. She believes that while AI will undoubtedly reshape industries, it will not render human work obsolete. Instead, AI will enhance efficiency and create new opportunities, though the transition may not be smooth for everyone.
A key issue she highlights is the potential loss of foundational skills. If AI performs entry-level tasks—such as writing, graphic design, or data analysis—how will professionals gain experience? The workforce must adapt by ensuring that AI complements human learning rather than replacing essential skill development.
Ethical Considerations and Regulation
As AI adoption grows, so does the need for ethical oversight. Dr Leavy emphasises the importance of regulation, particularly in high-risk areas like healthcare, policing, and finance. The recently introduced EU AI Act aims to address these concerns by categorising AI applications based on risk levels:
- Prohibited AI: Systems that fundamentally violate human rights.
- High-Risk AI: Applications in sensitive areas requiring strict regulation.
- Low-Risk AI: General-use applications with minimal regulatory oversight.
This risk-based approach ensures that AI-driven decisions affecting lives—such as credit scoring, job applications, or medical diagnoses—are subject to stringent checks and balances.
The Role of Education in AI Adoption
Dr Leavy stresses that education is the key to responsible AI use. Many people fear AI because they do not understand how it works. This lack of knowledge can lead to unnecessary hesitation or, conversely, blind trust in AI systems. By improving AI literacy, individuals and organisations can make informed decisions, maximising AI’s benefits while mitigating risks.
For those working in the public sector, ethical AI implementation is particularly crucial. Trust in government services depends on transparency and accountability, making it essential that AI tools are used responsibly. Investing in AI education ensures that professionals are equipped to oversee and regulate AI effectively, rather than simply reacting to its developments.
The Future of AI
Predicting AI’s future is challenging, but Dr Leavy remains optimistic. She believes Europe is taking the right approach—balancing innovation with regulation to create a safe and ethical AI environment. While AI will continue to evolve rapidly, proactive governance and informed decision-making will help shape its role in society.
As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, discussions like these are vital. By addressing concerns around ethics, regulation, and workforce adaptation, we can harness AI’s potential while safeguarding fundamental human values. The key takeaway? AI is not something to fear, but something to understand, regulate, and use wisely.
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About the Podcast Host
Joanne Sweeney is a specialist in public-sector marketing and digital communications. She’s the author of Public Sector Marketing Pro and the creator of the Professional Diploma in AI for Public Sector Marketing. With years of experience training, consulting, and advocating for digital transformation, Joanne provides insight and guidance for government agencies navigating the digital landscape. She is also the host of the award-winning Public Sector Marketing Show podcast.
