NIPSA has raised deep concerns about the lack of trade union engagement before the launch of the Executive Office’s public consultation on its draft Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy.
Carmel Gates, General Secretary, said:
“NIPSA recognises the need for an overarching strategy to govern the use of AI across the public sector. Any strategy that could change how our members work must be shaped through early and meaningful consultation with trade unions. We are, therefore, very disappointed that we were not given an early draft before public comment was sought”.
NIPSA has called for an AI strategy that safeguards members, protects jobs and the environment, and ensures new technologies are introduced transparently, ethically and with proper human oversight.
Ms Gates emphasised that “NIPSA will now review the draft strategy carefully and press for an approach to AI that protects workers’ rights and dignity and ensures technology supports rather than undermines or displaces high-quality public sector jobs. NIPSA will continue to resist any policy that attempts to facilitate arbitrary cuts or job losses”
ENDS
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