Federal government deploys AI chatbots and tools across public service
The federal government has launched multiple AI tools in recent weeks, with officials telling Parliament this week that the technology is meant to boost productivity and efficiency across the public service.
Public Service and Procurement Canada (PSPC) and Shared Services Canada (SSC) briefed MPs on April 23 about new AI systems already in use or rolling out to departments.
New tools for procurement and public servants
PSPC launched Procura Chatbot (Beta) this week on the CanadaBuys website. The tool answers general questions about doing business with the federal government using publicly available information.
The government acknowledges the chatbot has limitations. "Since it uses AI, the chatbot may not have all the answers and can make mistakes," according to the tool's description. For detailed or account-specific questions, users are directed to contact the help line or live chat.
Small and medium-sized businesses have long cited confusion about federal procurement rules as a barrier to bidding on contracts. Procura is designed to lower that barrier by providing basic guidance.
SSC launched CANChat, a generative AI tool similar to ChatGPT that helps public servants work more efficiently. The tool is built from multiple large-language models and handles tasks like drafting correspondence, writing content, and answering questions with Canadian context.
Scott Davis, assistant deputy minister and chief financial officer at SSC, told parliamentarians that the tools aim to deliver "better service to Canadians" and improve internal productivity in areas like project management.
Broader AI rollout across government
Beyond these new tools, federal employees already have access to Microsoft's Co-Pilot and other AI applications. Michael Hammond, chief financial officer for PSPC, said the department is ensuring staff can use these tools effectively to streamline processes.
PSPC has rolled out GC Translate, an AI translation tool now in use across several departments. The department is also testing policy chatbots designed to help staff interpret complex policies, reducing time spent on policy research.
Workforce implications
The expansion raises questions about which roles may be affected. Experts have previously warned that positions like translators and policy analysts could see changes as government scales AI tools.
Federal employees should expect AI to become a standard part of daily work. The government is framing these tools as efficiency boosters, not replacements, but the long-term impact on staffing levels and job duties remains unclear.
Your membership also unlocks:
