Donohoe used AI to ‘double-check’ Irish debt figures ahead of speech

By Cillian Sherlock, PA

Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe has admitted to using artificial intelligence (AI) to “double-check” figures in a speech.

Mr Donohoe said the Government is working on initiatives on the use of AI within public services.

Addressing the National Economic Dialogue in Dublin, Mr Donohoe said AI was part of a digital change that would “greatly define the future” of economy and society.

He said there was a need to recognise the impact that AI will have in public services.

Mr Donohoe said: “I was just reminded of this when I was preparing my speaking notes when I was looking to double-check my point regarding the creditworthiness of Ireland.

“I went on to my phone, went on to my AI app and as opposed to Googling it, I was able to put in the question regarding the debt profile of Ireland in recent years and in years to come.

“I got the answer back instantaneously.

“When I put the question in, I didn’t make clear I was referring to Ireland.

“It gave me the answer for the world and then when I made clear I was referring to Ireland, it gave me the Irish-specific answer.

“This is the kind of change that is happening and there are few that understand this better than younger people for whom this kind of technology is already embedded in their lives.

“We need to think about what that means, about how we design and deliver our public services, and the Government will bring forward initiatives on this soon.

“We already have guidelines in place regarding the use of AI in our public services.”