(Dublin: 7 May) – At William Fry LLPs (William Fry) annual AI Summit at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre today, senior executives, policymakers and legal specialists heard how artificial intelligence is progressing from tactical deployment to enterprise-wide strategic transformation.
Pictured (L-R) Stephen Keogh, Managing Partner, Dr. Barry Scannell, Technology partner, Niamh Smyth TD, Leo Moore, Head of Technology and Cathal Ryan, Deputy Commissioner Data Protection Commission.
Over 275 delegates from Ireland's leading organisations heard from government, regulatory and industry experts throughout the morning, exploring this year's theme: AI 'From Implementation to Transformation'.
Through a number of real-time polls throughout the summit, delegates provided unique insights into AI's current and projected impact on Irish business. Notably,
- 71% of delegates think that AI will significantly impact employment levels over the next five years
- 70% of organisations have an AI policy in place
- Only 52% of organisations have conducted AI literacy training
- 65% of business leaders believe AI is improving productivity
- The top three roles leading AI implementation in organisations are: IT director and IT team (34%), MD / CEO / COO (23%), and R&D (20%)
Commenting on the poll results, Dr. Barry Scannell, a Partner in William Fry's Technology Department noted "While it's encouraging to see that 70% of organisations have implemented an AI policy, it's concerning that 48% have not conducted the legally required AI literacy training as this creates a variety of risks for organisations, from liability risks to reputational risks. This gap underscores the urgent need for organisations to prioritise obtaining assistance when implementing AI technologies to ensure compliance and harness the full potential of AI responsibly."
The programme opened with an address from Niamh Smyth TD, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation, who outlined forthcoming strategies to ensure Ireland's AI ecosystem remains globally competitive while upholding ethical and privacy standards. Minister Smyth said: "We are committed to ensuring that as AI drives economic growth, while also safeguarding fundamental rights and building public trust in emerging technologies. We look forward to seeing what the future will bring with these impressive technologies and the positive impact it will have on Irish business and growth."
The summit also included a fireside chat with Cathal Ryan, Deputy Commissioner of the Data Protection Commission, exploring how organisations can embed privacy safeguards at every stage of AI adoption. He stated that "In an age when technology is rapidly changing and developing, embedding data protection by design is not optional—it is essential. Robust privacy frameworks underpin both consumer confidence and the sustainable deployment of AI."
Delegates also heard from EU Justice Commissioner Michael McGrath, via a video address, where he said, "Ireland has shown true commitment to AI innovation and ethical AI governance. This provides Ireland with the unique opportunity to emerge as a global leader in AI regulation."
Leo Moore, Head of William Fry's Technology Department added: "The William Fry AI Summit reflects the growing maturity of AI in business. By combining legal insight with technical expertise, today's Summit empowers organisations to move beyond proof-of-concepts and scale AI initiatives that deliver strategic value. AI is not just a race now, this a sprint. It's a legal and operational imperative."
Subsequent panels covered topics such as Microsoft's Copilot integration, the shifting landscape of tech investment and M&A, best practices in AI procurement, and the global outlook for AI governance and regulation. The panels featured senior voices from leading companies such as Microsoft, Anthropic Bank of Ireland, Intercom, Autodesk and William Fry, combining legal frameworks, live demonstrations and case studies to provide actionable guidance.
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Paul Bradely, Fleishman Hillard +353 85 174 4281 paul.bradley@fleishmaneurope.com
Sinead Hennebry, William Fry, +44 77 1100 4569, sinead.hennebry@williamfry.com
About William Fry's AI offering
At William Fry, we recognise that artificial intelligence (AI) is a pivotal force in the digitalisation revolution reshaping the business landscape. Our dedicated AI practice area is meticulously designed to guide and support clients through the complex legal terrain that AI innovation and deployment entail.
In choosing William Fry for AI legal counsel, clients are assured of a team that is not only immersed in the legal aspects but also deeply understands the technological underpinnings and business implications of AI. We are committed to ensuring our clients are at the cutting-edge of AI innovation, protected by informed and forward-thinking legal advice
To find out more, please visit: https: Artificial Intelligence Law & Compliance – William Fry