Key facts
- Canada's Liberal government announced its artificial intelligence strategy.
- CUPE, Canada's largest union, criticizes the strategy.
- The union claims the strategy prioritizes Big Tech profits over workers.
- CUPE is concerned about a lack of protections for workers displaced by AI.
- The union also cited a lack of assurances for workers' privacy and data protection rights.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), Canada's largest union, has voiced strong criticism regarding the Liberal government's newly announced artificial intelligence strategy. CUPE argues that the strategy places the financial interests of Big Tech billionaires above the well-being of workers and the public. The union specifically highlighted a perceived lack of robust measures to mitigate the risks associated with AI, particularly concerning its impact on the workforce. CUPE expressed concern over the absence of provisions to strengthen income protections for individuals who may lose their jobs due to AI-driven automation. Furthermore, the union stated that the strategy provides no assurances regarding the protection of workers' privacy and data rights in the context of AI implementation.