There is a growing capability gap emerging between people who are using artificial intelligence on a daily basis and those who are unsure how AI fits into their work life, according to new research from Amárach and AI consultant Karen Howley.

A nationally representative survey shows that despite widespread awareness, 57% of Irish adults are not using AI at all, either at work or for personal use.

Usage is heavily concentrated among younger demographics as 72% of 18-24 year-olds are actively engaging with AI compared to just 15% of people aged 65+.

Among young adults, the primary uses of AI are research and planning (35%), educational purposes (25%), and imagery (16%), while just 3% of the cohort use it for work purposes.

In fact, only a third of full-time employees currently use AI for work, and among those who do, 12% report that AI is delivering strong productivity gains.

People using AI are more likely to do so for personal (83%) rather than work (54%) use.

Furthermore, only one in 10 AI users has received formal training, underscoring a critical capability divide.

Amárach and Howley said that Ireland's long-term competitiveness may depend on how quickly that divide is closed.

"Our research found that those who use AI every day in the workplace are already seven times more productive than colleagues who dip in once a week, yet the vast majority of workers still haven’t been shown how to use these tools well," said Howley.

"Closing that capability gap is Ireland’s quickest win for competitiveness, and it starts with hands-on training, not just more discussion."

Gerard O'Neill, chair of Amárach Research, added: "Our data shows most people aren’t resisting AI; they simply don’t yet see where it fits into their work or lives.

"But once they start using it, interest builds quickly. The real challenge now is giving people safe, practical ways to start and building the skills and support that turn occasional use into real productivity gains."

The research shows that indifference (16%) is the fifth-most common reaction to AI behind worried (37%), curious (36%), interested (30%) and fearful (28%).

Those using AI are naturally more curious than worried about the technologies, and the reverse is true of those not using AI.

The main barriers identified by the 57% not using AI are no need (35%), a lack of understanding (29%), and concerns about privacy or trust (22%).

Fear of skill loss (6%), accessibility issues (6%) and environmental/ethical concerns (4%) were also cited.

(Pic: Getty Images)