The federal government is asking Canadians for their views on how to make artificial intelligence systems more transparent. The consultation, announced this week, aims to gather public input on what rules or guidelines could help people understand when and how AI is used in decisions that affect them. The move comes as Ottawa advances its broader AI regulatory agenda, including the proposed Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (AIDA).
AI transparency is a growing concern as algorithms increasingly influence hiring, lending, healthcare, and policing. Without clear rules, critics say, Canadians may not know when they are being evaluated by a machine or how to challenge a decision. The government wants feedback on key questions: What information should companies and public agencies disclose about their AI systems? How should they explain automated decisions? And what oversight is needed?
The consultation is open to individuals, businesses, civil society groups, and academics. Submissions can be made online until the deadline later this year. The results will inform potential legislative or regulatory changes, though no specific new laws have been proposed yet.
Stakeholders have mixed reactions. Industry groups welcome the chance to shape policy but warn against overly prescriptive rules that could stifle innovation. Privacy advocates hope the process leads to strong, enforceable standards that protect consumers. Indigenous and equity-seeking groups are urging the government to consider how AI bias may disproportionately affect vulnerable communities.
The outcome remains uncertain. The government has not committed to a specific timeline for next steps. However, the consultation signals that Ottawa sees transparency as a priority in its AI governance framework, which also includes safety testing and accountability measures.