The issue of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace will be discussed today (November 11) as an ex officio examination by the Parliamentary Committee on Labour, Welfare and Social Insurance.

Speaking to OffsiteNews, the Chair of the Labour Committee, Andreas Kavkalias, described artificial intelligence as a “major chapter,” highlighting its potential to contribute to progress, innovation, improved services, and quality of life.

However, he also warned of the challenges AI poses, such as the disruption of labour relations and the violation of personal data, among other concerns to be examined during the committee’s discussion on integrating AI into the workplace.

Kavkalias emphasized that the committee’s ex officio examination aims to assess the legislative framework, the opportunities, and the potential risks AI may bring to workers’ job security and rights.

Equally important, he noted, is the question of who will manage and control the use of AI within professional environments.

Finally, he stressed the need to determine how the government plans to handle the transformations AI could bring to the world of work, noting that technological developments “may evolve faster than legislation or even public debate.”

The committee has also requested input from government bodies to determine whether there is a short-, medium-, or long-term strategy for managing AI’s impact on employment.

Nicosia MP Marinos Mousiouttas told OffsiteNews that every new technology offers benefits, but misuse can lead to negative consequences.

This, he explained, is why the issue of AI in the workplace is being reviewed by the Labour Committee — to evaluate working conditions and employment terms, as well as how to safeguard employees and labour rights under this emerging technology.

Mousiouttas added that the committee will also examine the challenges and possible problems arising from the growing adoption of AI, stressing the need for comprehensive planning.

He further stated that the committee has requested information from government departments on whether there are any short-, medium-, or long-term plans regarding the use of AI in the labour market, adding that “although artificial intelligence is still in its infancy in Cyprus, in a few years it will be part of our daily lives.”