Expleo reveals Ireland’s AI transformation concerns are climbing despite rising confidence levels

Expleo, the global technology and consulting service provider, has announced the results of its AI Pulse sentiment tracker for Ireland. The May data reveals that while concern regarding AI’s impact on a business level has hit a record high, confidence in AI continues to hold firm.

The research found that almost half (48%) of Irish business leaders worry about how AI is transforming their organisation. At the same time, Expleo’s AI Pulse barometer recorded an overall score of 66 out of 100 – its strongest performance since the research launched in Ireland last February.

This confidence is reflected across the broader survey findings with almost three quarters of Irish business leaders (73%) now trusting their organisation to use AI ethically. This marks a notable shift from previous months in which Ireland lagged behind its European neighbours and puts Ireland on par with France and ahead of the UK.

In addition, almost two-thirds (64%) now perceive AI to be more of a benefit than a risk, a 10% increase since the research began. When asked whether their organisation could demonstrate accountable governance in the event of an AI incident, 69% said they were confident it could.

Despite this surge in confidence, concerns regarding transformation are still rising. While 41% are worried about how AI will impact their job, up 5% since last month, cybersecurity concerns also remain elevated. Over half (59%) have expressed worry about the risks AI poses to their organisations.

Commenting on the results, Phil Codd, Managing Director – Ireland, Expleo, said: “While the results may seem contradictory, the truth is that worry and confidence are not mutually exclusive. The fact that concern is rising alongside trust and optimism suggests that leaders are engaging seriously with AI rather than shying away from it. At Expleo, what we’re seeing on the ground reflects this: excitement, but also a real desire for expertise, consultancy and guidance on governance and successful implementation.”

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