Law Society conference highlights GDPR’s role in regulating AI tools

GDPR obligations remain ‘fundamental’ when addressing data protection issues linked to AI tools, according to legal experts speaking at a conference organised by the Law Society’s Intellectual Property and Data Protection Commission, a committee within the Law Society of Ireland, on 20 April. The event reviewed recent legislative developments, case law and the use of AI tools in the workplace.

Olivia Mullooly, partner at Arthur Cox, said regulation in the area remains a ‘moving feast’ amid ongoing negotiations on the EU Digital Omnibus. She added that GDPR has been effective in regulating new and novel activities by AI companies, and continues to overlap with other regulatory frameworks.

In a panel discussion, Bird & Bird partner Deirdre Kilroy said firms should not ignore fundamental GDPR principles when using AI. She also noted that organisations should not delay compliance actions despite shifting regulatory conditions.

Speakers also discussed uncertainty around evolving the EU rules and increasing complexity in compliance. The Data Protection Commission reported a rise in AI-related engagements, which accounted for one in four cases last year, up from one in 35 in 2021.

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