The Canadian federal government has introduced new guidelines for its employees who want to use artificial intelligence tools like chatGPT on the job. According to the Treasury Board President Anita Anand, these guidelines are being put in place to ensure responsible and ethical use of technology.
The government has recognized the potential of AI as a tool to improve the way it operates. A few years ago, they adopted a policy that outlines how government departments should use AI, including having an algorithmic impact assessment. Recently, they introduced specific guidelines for employees to navigate the complexities of using generative AI, such as chatGPT, for tasks like content creation and research.
While the government sees the potential benefits of AI, they are also aware of the risks involved. These risks include cybersecurity, privacy, and the potential for bias. The government is particularly concerned about bias in AI algorithms, as it could lead to discrimination against certain groups of people. To address this, the guidelines emphasize the need for monitoring and ensuring that bias does not creep into the use of generative AI.
The guidelines also highlight the importance of transparency. Employees are encouraged to be cautious when using AI on social media or when assessing applications for government benefits or services. They are also recommended to disclose the use of AI, such as using watermarks on images created with AI or informing individuals if they are interacting with a chat bot.
The introduction of these guidelines has sparked cautious responses from unions representing public servants. The unions express the need for clear rules and considerations of whether AI is always the best tool for a particular job. They also raise concerns about potential job displacement and advocate for retraining and upskilling of public servants to adapt to the increasing use of AI in government operations.
In conclusion, the Canadian federal government’s new guidelines aim to ensure responsible and ethical use of artificial intelligence tools by its employees. These guidelines address the potential benefits and risks of using generative AI, emphasize transparency, and consider the concerns of unions regarding job displacement. By implementing these guidelines, the government aims to harness the power of AI while minimizing potential negative impacts.
