From the editor
It is nigh on impossible these days to avoid talk of artificial intelligence (AI), and all the fevered speculation about the impact the technology might have on our lives and livelihoods in the future—some of it good, and some bad.
In the midst of all this noise, Chartered Accountants Ireland has published a position paper that puts paid to concerns in some quarters that AI may replace the work of the accountant.
Far from superseding the profession, the Institute argues, AI will instead act as a kind of “super assistant”, elevating the role of the accountant as trusted business leader, providing governance, ethical oversight and assurance in the AI economy.
And, this shift is already underway, as accountants worldwide move to embrace AI and businesses increasingly look to the profession to ensure data integrity in an age of algorithmic risk. You can read more about AI and the profession on page 36.
Elsewhere in this issue, Joe Carroll, Head of Professional Development with Chartered Accountants Ireland, considers the implications of AI’s emergence as a pressing compliance issue for employers in Ireland, under the EU’s AI Act. Where there is obligation, there is also opportunity, Carroll argues—for those who act now (pg 42).
On page 54, meanwhile, accounting lecturer Linda Mc Weeney offers a fascinating insight into how today’s accounting students are using AI to support their studies, and what this will mean for how we learn in the future.
It’s not all about AI in this edition, however, with a raft of member interviews and contributions highlighting once again just how ingrained the profession is in leadership across all sectors—from business and practice to public service, academia and not-for-profit.
As always, we hope you enjoy this issue.