Canada Launches Urgent Task Force for New AI Strategy Update

UPDATE: Canada is taking immediate action on artificial intelligence with the announcement of a new task force aimed at revamping the country’s AI strategy. Artificial Intelligence Minister Evan Solomon revealed this urgent initiative during his keynote speech at the All In artificial intelligence conference in Montreal, stating that the “refreshed” strategy will be presented later this year, almost two years ahead of schedule.

“We need to update and move quickly,” Solomon emphasized, signaling that Canada cannot afford to lag in the AI race. The task force will comprise approximately 20 representatives from various sectors, including industry, academia, and civil society. Members are expected to consult their networks and propose “bold, practical” ideas, with a report due to Solomon by November. The government will announce the task force’s members later this week.

The task force aims to address critical areas such as research, adoption, commercialization, investment, infrastructure, skills, and safety related to AI. In addition, the government plans to gather input from the public, reinforcing its commitment to an inclusive strategy that resonates with all Canadians.

Canada was a pioneer in establishing a national AI strategy, first launched in 2022, focusing on commercialization, the development of AI standards, and fostering talent. Solomon also hinted at a “major quantum initiative” set to launch in October, aiming to retain both talent and intellectual property within the country.

“The goal here is not to be the farm team for someone else’s economy,” Solomon stated, highlighting the importance of nurturing homegrown companies rather than allowing them to be acquired and moved abroad. He described digital sovereignty as “the most pressing policy and democratic issue of our time,” asserting that Canada must cultivate its own “digital economy” independent of external control.

In his remarks, Solomon underscored the need for public trust in AI technologies and government investments in domestic AI solutions. Following his speech, he participated in a panel discussion alongside Cohere, a Toronto-based firm that recently signed an agreement with Ottawa to advance AI initiatives in public service.

Solomon addressed concerns surrounding AI, emphasizing the government’s commitment to privacy reform and updating Canada’s 25-year-old privacy law. “We’re going to include protections for consumers who are concerned about things like deep fakes and protection for children,” he said. He assured that clear standards for data usage would be established to foster innovation and investment.

“Canadians aren’t going to embrace AI if they fear deep fakes, if they fear scams, or if the conversation revolves solely around job losses,” Solomon cautioned. He acknowledged widespread concerns among Canadians regarding the impact of AI on health, financial, and personal data, reiterating that sensitive information must remain under Canadian jurisdiction.

This developing story highlights Canada’s proactive approach to shaping its AI landscape and ensuring that innovations align with the values and safety of its citizens. As the task force begins its work, all eyes will be on how these new strategies will unfold in the coming months. Stay tuned for updates as Canada charts a determined course in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.