Irish organisations are advancing artificial intelligence as a core technology priority while channelling significantly less capital into AI initiatives than international counterparts, according to Forvis Mazars C-suite Barometer research reported by TechCentral.

The study shows 68% of Irish businesses position AI at the centre of their technology transformation strategies. However, only 10% commit one-fifth or more of technology budgets to AI programmes, trailing the 15% global average by a substantial margin.

Workforce impact assessments reveal divided perspectives. Nearly half of Irish respondents confirm AI has generated new positions within their organisations, while 24% report displacement effects. Separately, 75% of Irish executives acknowledge ethical and societal considerations yet proceed with implementation regardless.

Liam McKenna, Partner at Forvis Mazars in Ireland, said: "Irish business leaders are convinced of AI's importance and are moving fast to implement it. What is concerning is the investment gap. While they express the highest confidence in AI return on investment among all technology investments, their budget allocation doesn't live up to that."

The gap between strategic intent and financial commitment creates competitive exposure for Irish enterprises. McKenna warned that organisations expressing confidence in AI returns while withholding proportional investment risk forfeiting market positioning as global competitors accelerate deployment.

The findings suggest Irish companies navigate tensions between capturing AI-driven advantages and managing governance frameworks. McKenna emphasised boards must reconcile investment decisions with declared strategies, noting that winning organisations will move decisively while building infrastructure, skills and oversight mechanisms simultaneously.

Uncover the investment patterns shaping Irish AI adoption in the full article.