Ireland Launches AIready.ie App, Plans Skills Observatory as OECD Flags 27% of Jobs at Risk
Updated
Updated · Irish Examiner · Jul 20
Ireland Launches AIready.ie App, Plans Skills Observatory as OECD Flags 27% of Jobs at Risk
1 articles · Updated · Irish Examiner · Jul 20
Summary
James Lawless has rolled out the AIready.ie app as an entry-level AI tool, while the Irish government prepares a National Skills Observatory to track AI’s real-time impact on jobs and target upskilling.
The push is meant to manage rapid labor-market disruption as AI reshapes work beyond tech, with clerical, administrative and data-entry roles seen as most exposed to automation.
The article argues AI is more likely to augment many jobs than erase them, pointing to rising demand for big data specialists, cybersecurity and data warehousing roles, and renewable-energy engineers.
Global estimates underline both risk and opportunity: the World Economic Forum projects 92 million jobs displaced by 2030 but 170 million created, while the OECD says 27% of jobs in developed economies face high automation risk.
The broader policy message is that Ireland and the EU should embrace AI with safeguards, reskilling and clearer political leadership rather than delay or try to block the technology.
AI promises new jobs, but is it creating a lost generation by quietly freezing entry-level hiring?
As AI masters coding and writing, what uniquely human skills can actually guarantee a future-proof career?
Preparing 1 Million Irish Citizens for the AI Future: Inside Ireland’s AIReady.ie and National Skills Strategy
Overview
Ireland has taken a major step toward building an AI-ready workforce with the launch of AIReady.ie, a free national upskilling platform developed by Solas and the National Skills Council. This initiative aims to equip citizens with essential AI skills, supporting inclusive education and aligning with Ireland’s strategic goals. By making AI education accessible to everyone, AIReady.ie helps position Ireland as a leader in the digital era and fosters a workforce prepared for rapid technological change. The platform’s practical courses ensure that people from all backgrounds can confidently engage with AI and benefit from new opportunities.