Schwartz Reisman Institute Leaders Join Canada's Push for Safe AI
SRI Director David Lie and Co-Chair David Duvenaud were appointed to Canada’s new Safe & Secure AI Advisory Group. Their expertise will help shape policies at this crucial time in AI's development and contribute to Canada's efforts to keep these powerful technologies safe.
On March 6, the Federal Government of Canada announced several key initiatives to advance safe and responsible artificial intelligence (AI). Among them was the creation of the Safe and Secure Artificial Intelligence Advisory Group, which includes two key members of the Schwartz Reisman Institute for Technology and Society (SRI): SRI Director David Lie and SRI Co-Chair David Duvenaud.
As advisors, Lie and Duvenaud will play a crucial role in guiding the Government of Canada and the Canadian Artificial Intelligence Safety Institute on AI-related risks and strategies for mitigation. Their expertise will help shape policies that ensure AI systems are both innovative and secure.
Also included in the announcement was a refreshed Advisory Council on Artificial Intelligence – SRI’s inaugural Director and Chair, Gillian Hadfield previously served on the first council. The government also announced a new guide for AI system managers, and six new signatories to the voluntary AI code of conduct.
This announcement represents an important investment in AI safety at a time when the United States and United Kingdom—both early adopters and previous champions of AI safety agendas —are shifting their focus towards protecting AI systems and supporting innovation.
As AI safety experts, the SRI community promotes intentional AI governance measures as the best way to simultaneously protect the public while advancing innovation. SRI celebrates this announcement at a time when AI safety institutions are undergoing transformation and welcomes Canada’s efforts to keep these powerful technologies safe. Safety and innovation are not mutually exclusive. By balancing cutting-edge advancements with robust safeguards, a future can be created where AI enhances lives ethically and transparently, and safeguards the well-being of Canadians.
Read the full announcement from the federal government.
