Statistics Canada’s use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is governed in accordance with the Government of Canada’s Treasury Board Secretariat (TBS) policy and guidance on the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI). For more information, consult the Guide on the use of generative artificial intelligence.
At Statistics Canada, we have embraced TBS’s guidance by embedding our use of GenAI within our own AI Strategy and a robust internal framework tailored to the sensitive and specialized nature of our statistical work. Statistics Canada’s strategy requires employees to adhere to clearly defined best practices, which are specific to our business needs. Employees must follow privacy and security protocols and seek approval before deploying new GenAI tools for production use.
Our approach includes
- mandatory staff validation and review of all GenAI-assisted outputs prior to publication
- enhanced privacy and data protection measures aligned with the Statistics Act
- clear documentation and approval processes for the adoption of new AI tools
- ongoing staff training and support for responsible AI use.
We are committed to transparency, responsible innovation and privacy protection in all our activities. Statistics Canada’s guiding principles and use of GenAI tools are continuously monitored and reviewed to remain relevant and reflect the evolving technology and regulatory landscape, ensuring that our practices meet the highest ethical and professional standards.
How Statistics Canada uses generative artificial intelligence
To improve efficiency and enhance our services, we may use government-approved GenAI tools to help create our information and communications products. All AI-assisted outputs are reviewed and validated by Statistics Canada staff before publication.
The following are examples of how we may use GenAI:
- drafting and editing reports and discussion papers
- editing documents to ensure plain and inclusive language
- conducting preliminary research and compiling a list of sources
- drafting presentations, outlines, speaking notes, meeting minutes and other written materials
- summarizing and organizing comments and feedback
- reviewing and summarizing research materials
- drafting and editing emails and messages
- translating brief text segments
- producing videos and images.
Protecting your privacy while using generative artificial intelligence tools
Safeguarding the privacy and confidentiality of all information entrusted to us is our highest priority. Statistics Canada is dedicated to upholding strict data protection standards and complying with all relevant legislation when using GenAI tools. Every use of AI respects our legal and ethical obligations, ensuring that no personal or sensitive data are exposed or misused during the process.
For more on how we protect your data and foster public trust, please visit the Trust Centre pages dedicated to privacy and confidentiality commitments.
Unlocking innovation through responsible artificial intelligence use
By embracing GenAI with a commitment to responsibility, we unlock opportunities to design innovative services that respond more precisely to the evolving needs of those we serve. Harnessing these advanced tools allows us not only to enhance the quality of our existing offerings but also to streamline processes, increase efficiency and deliver greater value to Canadians. Responsible integration of AI empowers us to adapt swiftly and thoughtfully, ensuring that new solutions remain aligned with our high standards of service and integrity.