Johnny Mythen calls for stronger copyright protections for Irish artists amid rise of AI

Sinn Féin TD for Wexford Johnny Mythen has called for greater protections for Irish artists whose work is being used to develop artificial intelligence systems.

A Sinn Féin motion on the issue is being debated in the Dáil, with Deputy Mythen calling for action to protect the copyright and incomes of writers, musicians, performers, actors and other creative workers.

Deputy Mythen said artists’ copyrighted work is being used by AI systems without their consent or payment, creating technology that can produce content which competes directly with human creators.

He said this is adding further pressure on artists who already face challenges making a living from their work, with royalties and copyright payments forming an important part of many creators’ incomes.

“County Wexford is a beacon of talent and has produced many exceptional artists,” Deputy Mythen said, adding that it is important to protect the ownership of creative work into the future.

The Wexford TD is calling for stronger copyright protections at both national and European level, including measures to ensure artists have a say in how their work is used by AI developers.

He is also seeking a commitment that State funding for the arts would not be used to support AI-generated content.

Deputy Mythen said Ireland has an opportunity to take a leading role in shaping AI policy, particularly as the country prepares to take on a greater role at European level.

He said organisations representing Irish creatives, including music, writing and performance groups, have been raising concerns about the impact of AI on the sector and that their voices must be included in future decision-making.

“Now is the time to show leadership,” Deputy Mythen said, urging artists and members of the public who support stronger protections to contact their local representatives.