CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE REPUBLIC OF IRELAND

Abstract

The article presents an analysis of trends in the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and technology startups in the Republic of Ireland in recent years. Particular attention is paid to how the Irish state has become the new European headquarters of such technology giants as Microsoft, Google and Facebook. It is noted that after the UK's exit from the EU, international brands began to move their European headquarters from the UK to the Republic of Ireland. The article emphasises the importance of effective interaction between academia and industry, which allows Ireland to take a leading position in the field of artificial intelligence. The article emphasises the growing demand for AI technologies in various sectors of the economy and the prospects for their development in the country. It is argued that in the modern world, AI technologies are playing an increasingly important role in various spheres of life, from automating production processes to improving the quality of life. However, despite the widespread use of AI, there is still no single definition of this concept. In this context, an attempt is made to analyse different approaches to the definition of AI proposed by various experts and organisations, as well as to consider the main classifications and applications of AI. The purpose of the study is to provide a comprehensive and integrated analysis of trends, potential and prospects for the development of artificial intelligence in the Republic of Ireland. Scientific novelty. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the comprehensive analysis of AI development in the Republic of Ireland, as well as in the substantiation that the Irish state has a rich history of technological innovation, and the government is actively investing in the development of AI, which contributes to the development of the country's technology sector. Irish specialists have a high level of education and English language skills, which facilitates interaction with companies around the world. AI is developing rapidly and can significantly affect the life and work of the Irish, bringing both benefits and risks. The Republic of Ireland is actively working to create a fair and just AI system, successfully addressing complex ethical issues and establishing strict rules. The ethical principles of AI in the Republic of Ireland include transparency, fairness, non-discrimination, privacy, and security. The study and systematisation of official documents of the Republic of Ireland's state authorities, as well as the analysis of relevant factual data, identified key areas, potential and prospects for further AI development in the Republic of Ireland. Methodology. The theoretical and methodological basis of the study includes general scientific methods of analysis, synthesis, induction and deduction, as well as the systemic method, the method of structural and functional analysis and legal methods in cybersecurity. In order to understand the essence of AI development in the Republic of Ireland, as well as to identify the prospects and challenges on the way of its evolution, a systematic approach was applied. It allows us to consider AI as an integral complex system consisting of subsystems and elements that are in constant interaction. The study of the extensive legal framework within the framework of the regulation of the personal data and information protection system has led to the use of an interdisciplinary approach. As part of the interdisciplinary approach, legal methods in cybersecurity were applied, including the development of a legal framework governing relations related to the creation, storage, exchange and accessibility of information, as well as the creation of methodological recommendations, compliance with which will ensure the safety of personal data and confidential information. Conclusion. The study proves that the regulatory framework of the Republic of Ireland is aimed at balancing innovation and ethical standards, with the application of the Data Protection Act 2018 and the General Data Protection Regulation 2018 to AI programs that use personal data. In the EU, there has been a shift in AI regulation with the adoption of the European Union Artificial Intelligence Act 2024. Its impact on the Republic of Ireland remains to be seen, but it will have significant implications for the country's approach to AI in the future. The Irish state's AI compliance strategies are based on several principles: establishing a robust regulatory framework, fostering a culture of responsibility, proactive risk analysis, cooperation, and adaptation to technological advances.