ETB urged to protect local roles against AI

A long-serving member of Cavan-Monaghan ETB has issued a stern warning over the growing impact of Artificial Intelligence on administrative jobs, cautioning that a “new wave” of technological change could leave many workers unemployed.

Speaking at a recent ETB meeting held at St Bricin’s College in Belturbet, Joe McGrath urged the educational body to retain as many roles locally as possible and avoid what he described as a rush towards automation at the expense of people.

Mr McGrath criticised the previous centralisation of services such as HR and payment systems, but warned that AI now poses an even greater threat to traditional administrative positions.

“A great many people are going to lose their jobs,” he warned, claiming administrative staff are likely to be amongst the hardest hit.

“It might affect teachers as well, but maybe to a lesser extent,” he added.

Mr McGrath also took aim at the increasing digitisation of public procurement and tendering processes, arguing that organisations should not blindly embrace technological advances without considering the human cost.

The ETB, he insists, “shouldn't be running headlong” into adopting AI-driven systems if it risks displacing workers and weakening local employment.

His comments struck a chord, receiving support from Fianna Fáil councillor Clifford Kelly, who agreed the issue was one public bodies needed to monitor closely.

“It's something we need to look out for,” said the Cavan elected representative.