Minister of State with responsibility for artificial intelligence (AI) Niamh Smyth will tell the Oireachtas Committee on Artificial Intelligence that the Government is exploring strengthening laws covering AI deepfakes.
Ms Smyth will address the committee on the recent controversy involving the Grok AI tool, operated by the X platform, which allowed users to generate sexualised images of women and children.
In her opening address, the minister is expected to tell members that the Government will explore the potential to expand the list of prohibited AI practices under the EU Artificial Intelligence Act and explore options to strengthen victim reporting and awareness raising.
“In that regard, I have asked my officials to liaise with the commission on the potential for the AI Act to be amended to provide protections against the generation of images and deepfakes without consent, and the generation of content constituting child sexual abuse material through AI systems,” Ms Smyth is expected to say.
“The recent misuse of AI to generate appalling deepfake images is a prime example of how trust can be eroded and why governance is so important,” she will add.
Ms Smyth is also expected to welcome yesterday’s decision by the European Commission to open a formal investigation into X which she said followed “Coimisiún na Meán’s intensive engagement with them on this issue in recent weeks”.
Speaking ahead of the meeting, committee Cathaoirleach Malcolm Byrne said the rise of deepfakes and non-consensual images created by AI and circulated online is of great concern.
“In light of the European Commission’s decision to launch an investigation, it is vital that we explore what more Ireland and the European Union can do to ensure that AI and other technologies are not used for harmful purposes,” Mr Byrne said.
Separately today, online safety charity CyberSafeKids will give a presentation to TDs and Senators on the rise of AI “nudification/pornification” apps and their implications for Irish children, schools and adults.
CyberSafeKids CEO Alex Cooney said: “While Grok’s nudification tool has made headlines, similar apps and websites have remained freely accessible to anyone with an internet connection, regardless of age.
“With AI advancements accelerating daily, we cannot afford further delay. Our children’s digital lives demand urgent political leadership and cross-party action now.”