The government has introduced a set of ethical guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the public sector, aligning with the European Parliament and European Council’s agreement on the new European AI Act. These guidelines outline seven key requirements that AI tools used by civil servants must meet, including human agency and oversight, technical robustness and safety, privacy and data governance, transparency, diversity, non-discrimination and fairness, societal and environmental well-being, and accountability.
In addition to the ethical guidelines, the government has also established an interim set of guidelines for trustworthy AI in the public service. This document encourages public service organizations to conduct risk assessments and provides safeguards and considerations to ensure the ethical use of AI tools.
To support the implementation of AI projects in the public sector, the Department of Public Expenditure has made various resources available. Public service organizations can access a procurement framework for robotic process automation, funding support for AI projects through the Public Service Innovation Fund, and free learning and development interventions for public servants.
Speaking about the new guidance, Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe emphasized the opportunities presented by AI in improving public services and addressing complex challenges. Donohoe also stressed the importance of ethical and trustworthy AI implementation to protect public trust. Enterprise Minister Simon Coveney highlighted the immense productivity gains that AI technologies can bring to public service bodies and the importance of these guidelines in preparing for the forthcoming EU AI Act.
The government’s launch of ethical guidelines for AI use in the public sector demonstrates its commitment to leveraging AI’s potential while ensuring responsible and ethical practices. With these guidelines in place, public service organizations can confidently explore and implement AI technologies, enhancing service delivery and embracing innovation.
The source of the article is from the blog trebujena.net