Federal government opens consultations on using – and avoiding – AI in public services
The Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat has launched a public consultation on the use of artificial intelligence in the federal public service. It aims to “gather insights from Canadians across the country on how artificial intelligence should, or shouldn’t, be used in the federal government,” according to a news release from September.
The online survey is open between Sept. 16 and Oct. 31, 2024. It provides information about what AI is, how people may have already interacted with the technology, and why the government plans to use AI in its services. The final strategy will be published in 2025.
Submissions from individuals and on behalf of organizations have been welcomed. According to the Secretariat, the government has already consulted AI experts, academics, civil society, industry and Indigenous communities in the development of the strategy.
This consultation sits separately from Canada’s AI legislation, called the Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (AIDA). AIDA is part of Bill C-27, the Digital Charter Implementation Act.
Government entities are not subject to the same AI legislation as the private sector.
Several human rights groups and civil society organizations have criticized Canada’s approach to AI legislation. One main concern is that the body regulating artificial intelligence—Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada—is also tasked with growing Canada’s AI industry.
Many have also expressed concern that there has not been much diverse and meaningful public consultation regarding legislation that holds private companies to account.
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