Guide on the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Date: 2023-09-06

From: Chief Information Officer of the Government of Canada

To: Departmental Chief Information Officers, Chief Data Officers, Chief Security Officers

Subject: Guide on the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Message:

Colleagues,

I am pleased to share the attached Guide on the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI), which will be published today on canada.ca, and be accessible from the Responsible use of AI page.

The document provides preliminary guidance to federal institutions in their use of generative AI tools. It includes principles and best practices and identifies issues and policy considerations to help ensure that these tools are used responsibly. We intend to continue to evolve the guidance.

Generative AI tools have the potential to improve government operations, and federal organizations should explore their use. However, the use of these tools presents risks that require assessment and mitigation prior to use, and organizations should take a cautious approach.

As leaders, you have a role in ensuring that the use of these tools in your organization is ethical, legal and transparent. I encourage you to raise awareness about this guidance across your organization and support your employees in learning how to responsibly and effectively use these tools.

Please reach out to the TBS Responsible Data and AI team (ai-ia@tbs-sct.gc.ca) if you have any questions.

Best regards,

Catherine Luelo (She / Her / Elle)
Deputy Minister and Chief Information Officer of Canada
Government of Canada
catherine.luelo@tbs-sct.gc.ca