Course: PPOL619: Governance, Institutions and Public Policy

Assignment: 500-words federlism backgrounder explaining how a particular policy issue is shaped or constrained by federalism.

Title: Artificial Intelligence in Canada

Final Grade: 65% (probably the worst grade that I have ever received in university including undergrad and graduate schools)

Feedback: Confusing with no reference to the constitution and lacks neutrality.

Statement of Purpose

This document outlines the current landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy in Canada, emphasizing the interaction between federal, provincial, and municipal layers of governance. It serves to inform Alberta policymakers of the critical AI policy developments and considerations.

Jurisdiction Overview

Federal Government

  • Regulatory Framework: Developing AI regulations focusing on data privacy, intellectual property, and ethical standards. The government tabled the Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (AIDA) under Bill C-27 in June 2022, now under consideration in committee in the House of Commons
  • Policy Development: As a global frontrunner, Canada has been setting national AI strategies since 2017 centering on innovation, ethics, and global competitiveness.
  • Funding and Research: Over $1.1 billion has been committed to AI research Intelligence Strategy, administered by Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR)1 under appointment from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), a federal department responsible for a broad portfolio of industry and innovation issues

Provincial Government

  • Education and Workforce Development: Manage educational initiatives to foster AI skills and workforce development  aligning with industry needs.
  • Local AI Ecosystems: Provinces like Ontario and Quebec have developed robust AI ecosystems by supporting academic institutions and startups through targeted funding and policy initiatives.

Municipal Government

  • Implementation in Public Services: Urban centers such as Toronto and Montreal integrate AI into municipal services, enhancing traffic management, public safety, and more
  • Local Regulations and Standards: Municipalities contribute to the governance of AI by developing local standards, particularly within the scope of smart city projects

Policy Overview

  • Growth and Innovation: Canada is recognized globally for its AI research and innovation, with hubs in Toronto, Montreal, and Edmonton.
  • Public-Private Partnerships: A key feature of Canada’s AI policy is the collaboration between governments, academia, and industry fostering innovation and practical applications of AI
  • International Collaboration: Canada actively participates in international AI forums, contributing to global standards and ethics discussions

Analysis

  • Coordination and Cohesion: Harmonized AI policy across federal, provincial, and municipal levels of governance is vital for addressing challenges in standardization and regulatory practices, ensuring a unified national approach with regional adaptability.
  • Constitutional Considerations: Legislation such as Bill C-27 reflects a conscientious approach to federalism, showcasing the government’s strategy to respect provincial jurisdictions.
  • Regulation vs. Innovation: Federal directives set the regulatory framework, while provincial and municipal entities adapt it for local innovation needs.
  • Resource Allocation: The synergy of federal investment and local engagement is pivotal. Federal funding acts as a catalyst for AI research, while local efforts ensure its application translates into job creation and societal benefits.

Conclusion

Canada's approach to AI governance exemplifies a robust model of federalism and multi-level governance for technological advancement, ensuring that regulatory frameworks and ethical considerations are integral to AI development. The nation's strategic approach has established it as a world leader in the prioritization and implementation of AI governance.

References

Attard-Frost, Blair, Ana Brandusescu, and Kelly Lyons. 2023. ‘The Governance of Artificial Intelligence in Canada’. https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4414212.

Brandusescu, Ana. 2021. ‘Artificial Intelligence Policy and Funding in Canada: Public Investments, Private Interests’. SSRN Electronic Journal. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4089932.

Canada. 2022. BILL C-27, An Act to Enact the Consumer Privacy Protection Act, the Personal Information and Data Protection Tribunal Act and the Artificial Intelligence and Data Act and to Make Consequential and Related Amendments to Other Acts. https://perma.cc/QE5C-YW6W.

Deloitte. 2023. ‘Impact and Opportunities: Canada’s AI Ecosystem’.

Herath, H.M.K.K.M.B., and Mamta Mittal. 2022. ‘Adoption of Artificial Intelligence in Smart Cities: A Comprehensive Review’. International Journal of Information Management Data Insights 2 (1): 100076. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jjimei.2022.100076.

Kung, Johnny, Gaga Boskovic, and Charlotte Stix. 2020. ‘Building an AI World: Report on National and Regional AI Strategies, Second Edition’.

Scassa, Teresa. 2023. ‘Regulating AI In Canada: A Critical Look at the Proposed Artificial Intelligence and Data Act’. Canadian Bar Review 101 (1): 1. https://canlii.ca/t/7n4ch.

Thomasen, Kristen. 2023. ‘Safety in Artificial Intelligence & Robotics Governance in Canada’. Canadian Bar Review 101 (1): 62. https://canlii.ca/t/7n4ck.