AI COULD have huge benefits for the Welsh economy, but it can also bring risks such as job displacement. The Welsh Government must be prepared for these changes, but to date it has done very limited planning for the impact of AI on the economy.
A Senedd Committee is today, 20th May, calling for a comprehensive action plan to maximise AI benefits, support businesses, and build AI infrastructure.
The Economy, Trade and Rural Affairs Committee carried out a short inquiry considering AI adoption by Welsh businesses, economic opportunities and risks, job impacts, and the need for skills development.
Not enough is being done
The Committee’s report is clear – not enough work has been done to prepare for the impacts of AI and, as well as calling for an action plan, the Committee has laid out recommendations for the Welsh Government to:
- Identify and support areas where Wales has a competitive edge in AI
- Support AI growth zones, considering energy and water use implications
- Analyse which sectors are most at risk from AI-related job displacement and support workers who may need to retrain or reskill
- Assess and address AI-related skills gaps in the workforce
‘AI could bring huge benefits’
Photo: Welsh Parliament.
Andrew RT Davies, Chair of the Senedd’s Economy, Trade and Rural Affairs Committee said: “AI could bring huge benefits for Wales – but only if we get ahead of the game and prepare for how it could impact our economy. It’s obvious that not enough groundwork has been done by the Welsh Government to assess where Wales has a competitive edge.
“Other possible impacts are more concerning, like the impact AI might have on certain parts of the labour force and how it could affect jobs.
“The Welsh Government must support businesses to make the most of AI now and support those who could lose their jobs as a result of automation.
“Our Committee decided to undertake this short inquiry because we’re very aware that not enough analysis has been done – much more work is needed to plan for what’s ahead and to put Wales in a strong position for an AI future.”
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