Quebec Urged to Enact Legislation to Govern AI Development

A recent report by the Quebec Innovation Council has made it clear that the time is now for Quebec to craft legislation aimed at guiding the development and use of artificial intelligence (AI) within the province. The findings of the council were brought to light this past Monday, underscoring an urgent need for oversight in this rapidly evolving tech sphere.

Blueprint for AI Readiness

The detailed report, spanning 142 pages and titled "Ready for AI," offers a strategic plan for Quebec to continue leading in AI innovation while ensuring citizens are safeguarded through ethical and responsible application of the technology. The report was officially presented by Pierre Fitzgibbon, Minister of the Economy, Éric Caire, responsible for digital affairs, and the province's Chief Innovator, Luc Sirois.

Fitzgibbon stressed the dual nature of AI as both a potent economic tool and a potential risk, emphasizing the need for regulation that fosters innovation but also maintains public trust and addresses societal needs.

Recommendations for Action

The council's primary recommendation is the immediate commencement of work towards a dedicated framework law to regulate AI's responsible rollout. The report advocates for an independent authority to spearhead this task, separate from executive government branches.

The labor landscape is also set to undergo significant AI-induced changes, prompting calls for updated labor laws and social policies. Additional concerns highlighted include the battle against AI-generated misinformation and deepfakes, and the protection of intellectual property in the era of generative AI.

Enhancing Education and Support

Programs in digital literacy and critical thinking around AI are suggested from kindergarten through to university levels. This is to be complemented by ongoing professional training to help workers adapt to AI-infused workplaces.

Further investment in AI-related research, development of AI tools, and expanding computing power are key recommendations of the report. There's also a call for the creation of a national cultural database to nurture Quebec's and Canada's cultural data resources.

Funding and Support for AI Adoption

The council urges immediate funding availability for AI strategic assessment and project implementation in essential public sectors, with a focus on health care, education, and climate change action.

Reception and Future Direction

The labor community has tentatively welcomed the report but calls for transparency and continued dialogue during the AI integration process. The report has been the culmination of extensive consultations, involving a broad cross-section of society, and underscores the significance of engaging diverse stakeholders in AI's future.

Quebec, AI, legislation