The Workforce Partnership Council has published guidelines on the ethical use of AI in public sector workplaces, aiming to balance technological benefits and potential risks to the workforce.
This guidance is detailed in two reports, “Managing Technology that Manages People – A Social Partnership Approach” and “Using AI at Work – Benchmarking Report on Industry Awareness and Understanding of AI Welsh public.
These were created collaboratively by the Welsh Government, public sector employers and unions.
The reports present a framework for AI implementation, focusing on 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.
“These three key principles reflect our ‘Welsh way’ of social partnership: collaborative decision-making that prioritizes fairness, job security and workforce development.
These guidelines have been well received by the Social Partnership Council and other stakeholders, demonstrating their importance.
Complementary resources are also being developed by the Center for Digital Public Services to further support the ethical use of AI in public sector organizations.
TUC Cymru general secretary Shavanah Taj said: “To get the most out of AI systems that manage workers, workers need to have a strong voice in their design and use.
“The 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.”
The Welsh Government and social partners plan to implement a comprehensive communications program to ensure that guidance, approaches and recommendations are effectively integrated into workplaces across Wales.
