Ireland's healthcare unions have raised significant concerns over the government's new AI strategy for the public health service. Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill launched AI for Care on Wednesday, outlining how artificial intelligence could accelerate diagnosis, improve patient flow, and reduce administrative burden on clinicians. However, union representatives argue the strategy was published without adequate consultation with workers. The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation, SIPTU, and Fórsa have demanded involvement in AI implementation, emphasizing that staff training, safeguards, and clear accountability measures are essential. Union leaders stress that healthcare advancement must remain human-led while technology is integrated safely. The unions have requested urgent meetings with HSE leadership to discuss worker protections and patient safety oversight during AI rollout.
