A survey by PwC shows that the majority of Irish workers are not using artificial intelligence (AI) tools on a daily basis, even as a small minority report tangible benefits from the technology.
According to the firm’s latest Workforce Hopes and Dreams report, only 10% of workers in Ireland use generative AI every day, below the global average of 14%. Daily use of AI agents is even lower, at 3%, compared with 6% globally.
Despite limited daily usage, those who regularly engage with AI report improved work performance. More than two-thirds said AI helped them produce higher-quality output, while 64% noted overall improvements in their work. Over half of respondents reported that AI enhanced their creativity.
“People are able to do things faster than they could before, and they’re approaching tasks differently from a creativity perspective,” said Ms. Mullane, a PwC spokesperson. She noted that regular users often experience a “snowball effect,” increasing adoption once they see the benefits.
The survey also found that 43% of Irish workers had used AI at some point in the past month, suggesting that many have tried the technology but have not yet made it a routine part of their work. Mullane emphasized that companies need to support broader adoption, ensuring all employees receive the skills and training necessary to benefit from AI.
Beyond AI use, the survey highlighted ongoing pressures in the Irish workforce. Just over a third of workers reported feeling overwhelmed at least once a week, while 59% said they were experiencing financial strain. Mullane said these findings underline the importance of employers addressing employee well-being in a holistic manner.
“Financial strain is a persistent issue,” she said. “People bring this stress into work. Employers need to consider total well-being and provide support across all areas, including finances.”
Trust in leadership also emerged as a concern. Mullane highlighted that employees, particularly amid rapid technological changes like AI, need confidence that managers are transparent and consistent in their decisions.
“Given the uncertainty facing the workforce, trust is critical,” she said. “Leaders need to communicate clearly and consistently to maintain confidence among staff.”
The report paints a picture of a workforce at a crossroads: while AI has the potential to boost productivity and creativity, most Irish workers have yet to adopt it regularly. At the same time, stress, financial pressures, and concerns over leadership transparency remain pressing issues for employers to address.
