The Workforce Partnership Council in Wales today shared new guidance on the ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in public sector workplaces.
Presented in two reports – “Managing technology that manages people – A social partnership approach” And “Using AI at work – Benchmarking report on awareness and understanding of AI in the Welsh public sector” – which have been produced through Wales’ unique social partnership model, meaning they have been created in full collaboration by the Welsh Government, public sector employers and trade unions.
This new guidance reinforces the shared commitment across the Welsh public sector to harness the benefits of emerging technologies, while protecting against potential risks, particularly to the workforce.
The reports outline a holistic framework for AI implementation, focused on three critical areas: checks and balances, responsible implementation, and post-adoption evaluation.
Social Partnership Minister Jack Sargeant said:
“As AI continues to shape the future of our workplaces, it is crucial that public service workers and organizations benefit from this continued innovation. Our approach ensures that the adoption of AI in public services is transparent and supported by human oversight.
“The three key principles reflect our ‘Welsh way’ of social partnership: collaborative decision-making that prioritizes fairness, job security and workforce development.
“With these resources, we are reaffirming Wales’ position as a leader in the ethical adoption of AI, setting a benchmark for responsible technology management in the public sector. »
These guidelines have received strong support from the Social Partnership Council and other key stakeholders, reflecting broad consensus on their importance.
The Center for Digital Public Services (CDPS) is also working on complementary resources to further support public sector organizations in the ethical use of AI.
Shavanah Taj, general secretary of TUC Cymru, said:
“To get the most out of AI systems that manage workers, workers must have a strong voice in their design and use.
“TUC Cymru and public sector unions welcome the publication of Managing Technology That Manages People as it will ensure workers share in the benefits that AI could bring.
“Unions were happy to work closely with employers and the Welsh Government to reach agreement on this guidance. This demonstrates the benefits of working in social partnership.
The Welsh Government and social partners will then implement a comprehensive communications program to ensure that these materials, approaches and recommendations are effectively integrated into workplaces across Wales.
