The Globe and Mail reports in its Friday, May 16, edition that the creation of a Minister for Artificial Intelligence signals that the Carney government prioritizes AI in its economic strategy. The Globe's guest columnist Michael Geist writes that there is less clarity, however, on what actions the federal government should take regarding it.
Elevating AI to a full ministerial position shows Prime Minister Mark Carney's desire to change the status quo, but the new office appears to be a challenging role. Minister Evan Solomon takes on a position rich in symbolism yet unclear in function, where he may find success harder than failure. AI investment globally amounts to hundreds of billions, with Canada's contributions being minimal. While the government can play a role in fostering growth in the domestic AI sector, if funding announcements dominate Mr. Solomon's tenure, it would indicate a failed initiative. The rush to regulate during the early stages of AI companies and technologies has begun to look ill-considered and damaging to those countries that still harbour hopes of AI economic leadership.
Mr. Solomon has the chance to forge ahead with a new approach, but make no mistake, the path is uphill.
© 2025 Canjex Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.