AI Skills Shortage Emerging as Major Challenge for Ireland’s Growth, EY Survey Finds

Dublin: A shortage of artificial intelligence (AI) specialists and skilled technology professionals is becoming one of the biggest barriers to Ireland’s economic and technological progress, according to the latest EY Ireland Tech Leaders Outlook Survey 2026.

The fifth annual survey, conducted by EY Ireland, gathered insights from 150 senior technology leaders responsible for innovation and digital transformation across sectors including government, healthcare, infrastructure, telecommunications, energy, consumer industries and technology.

Skills Gap Worsens

The report found that the shortage of skilled professionals has intensified significantly over the past year. Around 36% of respondents identified the lack of specialist talent as the biggest obstacle to delivering transformation projects, up from 24% in 2025.

In addition, 16% of technology leaders cited limited internal capabilities as a major challenge, while 20% highlighted succession planning and leadership development as key priorities for their organisations.

Growing Investment in AI

Despite concerns about talent shortages, organisations are continuing to increase their investment in artificial intelligence.

According to the survey:

• 82% of organisations are currently investing in AI, compared with 44% last year.
• 40% have already developed a formal AI strategy.
• 45% are actively exploring AI opportunities and use cases.
• Many organisations are investing in AI-powered tools, automation solutions and decision-support technologies.

Uncertainty Over AI’s Impact on Jobs

The survey also revealed mixed views regarding the impact of AI on employment.

• 6% of respondents believe AI will reduce recruitment levels.
• 3% expect AI to create additional jobs.
• 84% believe AI will have little or no impact on overall hiring levels.

While AI adoption continues to accelerate, many organisations remain uncertain about how the technology will reshape workforce requirements in the long term.

Concerns Over AI Readiness

Around one in five respondents said they have not yet seen meaningful value from AI investments, while concerns about organisations’ ability to adopt AI quickly are increasing.

The proportion of leaders who identified slow AI adoption as a significant concern rose from 12% in 2025 to a much higher level this year, reflecting growing pressure on businesses to keep pace with technological change.

Commenting on the findings, Ronan Walsh, Head of Technology Consulting at EY Ireland, said the research highlights a clear challenge facing organisations across the country.

He noted that while companies are eager to implement new technologies and undertake complex digital transformations, a shortage of skilled professionals—particularly AI specialists—is making progress more difficult. He also warned that many organisations are struggling to keep up with the pace of workforce training and upskilling required to support emerging technologies.

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