Launch of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy for the Federal Public Service

Date: 2023-12-22

From: Chief Information Officer of the Government of Canada

To: Deputy Heads

Subject: Launch of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy for the Federal Public Service

Message:

Colleagues,

I am pleased to announce the launch of an initiative to shape an Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategy for the federal public service. In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, harnessing the potential of AI is essential for many aspects of our work, including enhancing government services, fostering innovation, and ensuring the well-being of Canadians.

Canada is a world leader in research and the development of AI and, as a government, we’ve been leaders in the development of policies and guidance on the fair and secure use of these technologies. The Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat (TBS) issued policies and guidance, including the Directive on Automated Decision-Making, published in 2019, and its supporting Algorithmic Impact Assessment (AIA) and the Guide on the use of Generative AI released just this past fall. These were among the very first mandatory policies and guidance on AI that helped establish Canada as a leader in responsible AI. We’ve also seen many innovative departmental AI projects and the advancement of highly popular Canada School of Public Service (CSPS) offerings in this field, which mean we are headed in the right direction.

Recently, the work on AI as part of the policy planning exercise led to the exploration of the barriers, opportunities, and risks of AI while engaging with experts, researchers, and civil and private sector stakeholders. We examined implications for our economy, our social welfare, our security, and on government operations. Through this exercise there was broad consensus that while Canada is a leader in the development of the technology, it is lagging in the adoption of AI, and this couldn’t be more true than within the federal public service. The development of a comprehensive AI strategy will not only enable us to transform the way we deliver services but also reinforce our position us as a leader in responsible and ethical AI adoption.

Key tenets guiding the development of the AI Strategy

1. Advancing the Digital Ambition: Ensure that the AI strategy seamlessly integrates with our digital ambition, leveraging technological advancements to deliver efficient and user-centric government services.
2. Reinforcing Data Strategy Implementation: The AI strategy will complement and be supported by our existing data strategy, fostering a cohesive approach to data management, privacy, and security.
3. Inclusive Engagement: Collaborate with key stakeholders, including government agencies, industry experts, bargaining agents and academia and civil society, to gather insights and ensure a well-rounded perspective in crafting the AI strategy.

Project Timeline

The AI strategy development project is slated to commence immediately, to be completed in the fall of 2025 with checkpoints throughout on progress in this fast-evolving area. Throughout this period, we will keep you updated on significant milestones, seek your valuable input, and encourage your participation in shaping this transformative initiative.

Your involvement and support in this endeavour are crucial to the success of the project. Together, we can position the federal public service as a pioneer in leveraging AI for the betterment of our society.

If you have any immediate thoughts or questions, please feel free to reach out. Stephen Burt, Chief Data Officer of Canada, will be providing strategic leadership on this file and I am sure he can count on your support and collaboration as we continue on this exciting journey.

cl

Catherine Luelo (She / Her / Elle)
Deputy Minister and Chief Information Officer of Canada
Government of Canada
catherine.luelo@tbs-sct.gc.ca