Tech union to hold AI 'counter summit'

The Communications Workers Union (CWU), representing tech workers, is organizing an AI counter summit to address the impact of artificial intelligence on jobs. This event precedes the International AI Summit in Dublin, part of Ireland's EU Presidency. The CWU's purpose is to provide a real-world analysis of AI's effects on workers and express opposition to the deployment of new technologies without staff consultation.

The Digital and Tech Workers Alliance, a branch of the CWU, is leading the organization of this event. CWU Deputy General Secretary Ian McArdle emphasized that AI should not be developed and deployed solely for profit, regardless of its impact on workers and communities. McArdle stressed the need to create space for critical voices and reject tech products that oppose social interests and big tech's desire for AI profitability at any cost.

The Government supports the inclusion of workers' voices at the International AI Summit. One panel discussion will focus on the changing world of work, featuring representatives from Ibec group Technology Ireland and the CWU.