A new Eurobarometer survey conducted by the European Commission has found overwhelming support among Irish workers for strong regulations on artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. The study, which surveyed 1,006 people in Ireland as part of a wider EU-wide sample of 26,400, highlights growing public demand for safeguards to protect workers’ rights while maximizing the benefits of AI-driven technologies.
Call for Stronger Workplace Protections
The findings indicate that 84% of Irish workers believe it is important to have rules protecting workers’ privacy, while 80% support regulations that involve employees and their representatives in the design and adoption of new technologies. Additionally, more than three-quarters of respondents agreed that rules should be in place to limit automated employee monitoring.
Despite concerns over AI’s impact, the report also revealed a generally positive outlook among Irish workers, with two-thirds stating they feel “totally positive” about how new technologies could affect their jobs.
Trade Unions Call for Action
Commenting on the survey, Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) General Secretary Owen Reidy said the results reflect a strong public appetite for AI regulation at both the Irish and European levels.
“Public attitudes polling shows there is a strong appetite for the Irish Government and the European Commission to introduce legal protections on AI in the workplace to ensure AI delivers for workers as much as for businesses,” Reidy stated.
He emphasized that trade unions are not opposing progress, but rather advocating for a balanced approach that ensures AI is used ethically and effectively.
“People in general, and trade unions in particular, are not looking to hold back the tide of progress. Most acknowledge the potential of AI for improving their jobs and workplaces when used in the right way, which will require robust regulation and consultation,” he added.
Balancing Innovation and Workers’ Rights
The results come as the European Commission continues to develop legislation and policy frameworks to regulate AI use across industries, ensuring workers’ rights and privacy are upheld. With public opinion strongly in favor of worker protections, policymakers are likely to face increasing pressure to introduce clear guidelines on AI’s role in the modern workplace.
As AI adoption accelerates, the conversation around regulation, transparency, and ethical implementation will be crucial in shaping the future of work in Ireland and across Europe.
