Fórsa has joined with other healthcare unions to raise serious concerns about the recently launched Artificial Intelligence for Care Strategy in public health services.

Unions have warned that any meaningful integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) must be developed with full workforce involvement and safeguards for patient care.  

Fórsa’s head of health and welfare, Ashley Connolly, said unions have sought to meet with the chief technology officer of the HSE to discuss how the strategy will be implemented in practice.  

Ashley emphasised that AI deployment in health must not undermine safe staffing levels in frontline care: “Any advancement of AI initiatives must be accompanied by protections to ensure that patient care remains safeguarded through effective human oversight.”   

Union concerns centre on the fact that the strategy was published without “adequate or any real engagement with worker representatives.” Other unions, including SIPTU and the INMO, described the process as having “ploughed ahead” without proper consultation.  

A joint union statement noted that AI carries “potential benefits but also great risks.” They stressed the need for safeguards, sufficient time and resources for staff involvement, training on new systems, and clear lines of accountability to protect patients. 

The HSE and Department of Health have said that AI tools are intended to support clinicians by reducing administrative burdens and freeing up more time for patient care. 

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