THE Welsh government revealed its new expert group on artificial intelligence today, which included a leading trade unionist.

TUC Cymru general secretary Shavanah Taj will take a seat on the group looking at how AI can be used to improve public services in Wales.

The move to set up the group follows First Minister Eluned Morgan’s speech at last month’s Welsh Labour conference, where she pledged to use AI “in partnership with our trade unions.”

The FM also pledged to create a new Civil Service department for AI and invest £2.5 million “to show visible leadership on AI across Welsh public services.”

Economy Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Evans announced the expert group and will host the first meeting of the AI strategic advisory group.

Members are drawn from business and innovation fields, academia and social partnership backgrounds. 

“AI has the potential to significantly improve our public services, but in doing so we must ensure that it is deployed ethically,” Ms Evans said.

TUC Cymru general secretary Shav Taj said: “TUC Cymru welcomes the establishment of this group, which rightly includes a voice for trade unions. 

"It is vital that workers and their unions have a strong, informed voice in shaping how AI is introduced, used ethically, and effectively in managing change.”