Nearly two-thirds of jobs in Ireland will require significant reskilling as artificial intelligence reshapes workplaces, according to new research from business group Ibec, which says the country risks losing its competitive edge unless it adopts a stronger approach to lifelong learning.
The report, produced with support from Accenture, argues that rapid advances in AI are transforming industries and changing the skills employers need. It warns that Ireland’s existing workforce development model is no longer sufficient to meet the demands of the technology-driven economy.
Researchers estimate that around two-thirds of current roles will require workers to develop new skills as AI becomes increasingly integrated into business operations. The report says failing to prepare employees for these changes could limit Ireland’s ability to benefit from AI-driven economic growth and weaken its international competitiveness.
Ibec said the country must move beyond its traditional talent strategy and place greater emphasis on continuous education and professional development throughout people’s careers.
Kara McGann, Ibec’s Head of Skills and Social Policy, said Ireland is only beginning to experience the full impact of artificial intelligence on the labour market.
“We are just at the precipice of the change happening as a result of AI,” McGann said.
She warned that a passive approach would leave workers and businesses unprepared for the opportunities and challenges created by the technology. Instead, she called for sustained investment and coordinated action to help employees adapt to changing workplace demands.
The report highlights lifelong learning as a key pillar of future economic success, urging employers, educational institutions and policymakers to work together to build a workforce capable of responding to technological change.
Ireland’s Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless, said the findings underline the need for a national effort to prepare workers for the AI era.
He said governments, businesses, education providers and industry all have a shared responsibility to ensure people acquire the skills needed for a rapidly evolving economy.
Lawless added that wider adoption of artificial intelligence across businesses will be essential if Ireland is to remain competitive and create new opportunities for economic growth.
The minister said he intends to work closely with employers and training providers to ensure appropriate skills programmes are developed and that workers have access to education that reflects future labour market needs.
The report comes as businesses across multiple sectors increasingly invest in AI technologies to improve productivity, automate routine tasks and enhance decision-making. While these developments are expected to create new opportunities, they are also changing the nature of many existing jobs.
Ibec said preparing the workforce through ongoing education and reskilling will be critical if Ireland is to capture the long-term economic benefits of artificial intelligence while ensuring employees can successfully adapt to the changing world of work.
