QUESTION PERIOD — Innovation, Science and Economic Development
Artificial Intelligence Regulations
April 18, 2024
Senator Gold, there was an insightful discussion on the risks associated with artificial intelligence, or AI, during our Global Parliamentary Forum organized by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, or IMF, this week. Many at the World Bank would prefer that there be a collaborative global approach to regulating AI.
To what extent does the Government of Canada share this objective? How are we collaborating with our global partners in legislating and regulating AI?
I noted that, about a month ago, the European Parliament adopted its Artificial Intelligence Act. Its aims include providing AI developers and employers with clear requirements and obligations regarding specific uses of AI. The act is considered the first-ever comprehensive legal framework for AI in the world.
Thank you for your question.
Colleagues, artificial intelligence has tremendous economic potential; however, as with all technology, it presents important challenges and considerations to make sure that its development and implementation are safe. Canada is a global leader in responsible AI and is supporting an AI ecosystem that supports the responsible use of this important technology.
In response to your question, Senator Loffreda, to that end, I understand that Budget 2024 proposes $3.5 million over two years, starting in 2024-25, to advance Canada’s leadership role with a global partnership on artificial intelligence, securing Canada’s leadership on the global stage when it comes to advancing the responsible development, governance and use of AI technologies internationally.
Thank you for that response.
There are many opportunities associated with the development and deployment of AI, but significant risks also exist.
How is the government supporting an AI ecosystem that promotes responsible use of technology and protects Canadians from the potentially harmful impacts of AI? The more we wait, the more things change and the more we fall behind other jurisdictions.
In Budget 2024, the government has proposed to provide $50 million to create an AI safety institute of Canada to ensure the safe development and deployment of AI. That is in addition to the proposed $5.1 million to equip the office of the proposed AI and data commissioner with the necessary resources to begin enforcing the proposed artificial intelligence and data act. These are major steps toward addressing the need for responsible leadership in this area.
