The federal government has big plans to implement artificial intelligence (AI) across the public service. This technology is already part of many day-to-day government operations, from email spam filters and research tools to spell checking.
The government has big plans to use AI to drive efficiency and speed up workflows but has not explained how it will protect jobs and Canadians’ personal information. With proper implementation, AI tools could help further improve public sector productivity and capacity. Poorly regulated and rushed AI implementation, however, could degrade service quality, put Canadians’ privacy in jeopardy and undermine public trust in government.
CAPE advocates for a measured AI rollout that serves the public good. AI should enhance public sector work – not displace workers. It is never a substitute for professional judgment and should only be used with careful oversight. For CAPE members in research, policy, and translation, responsible modernization ensures that technology enhances, not undermines, their contributions. Instead of using it to cut employees, the focus must be on reskilling workers to adapt and thrive.
The first step in any AI plan must be meaningful consultation with workers. Proper oversight, safeguards around personal information and clear accountability mechanisms will be the cornerstones of a sound AI strategy.
Research
CAPE conducts research to better understand the issues of the day, determine what other bargaining agents have advocated for and won, and to better understand the views of our membership.
In November 2025 and January 2026, CAPE conducted three focus groups with members, providing a forum for them to share their perspectives and to deepen understandings of the impact of AI in the federal workplace to drive advocacy and engagement work and to inform future rounds of bargaining.
The association’s research team has produced several AI-focused documents to better understand the impacts of AI and how to advocate for our members, including an AI-focused review of the 2025 federal budget, examining key AI-related investments and their implications for federal public sector workers, a briefing note on the federal government's AI Task Force to inform its positioning, and a substantial report on AI-related language in collective agreements internationally. Going beyond a simple inventory, it provides a critical analysis of clause design and wording and delivers concrete recommendations across key employment-rights themes. This report will serve as a direct foundation for collective bargaining proposals and inform our future AI advocacy.
Artificial intelligence remains one of the foremost issues driving CAPE's research agenda. Staying current with rapidly evolving developments in AI policy, technology, and labour relations is an organizational priority, and we continue to dedicate significant resources to monitoring, analysis, and engagement in this area.
Updates:
September 25, 2025 - CAPE presses Bloc Québécois MPs on interpreter and translator priorities
January 29, 2024 – Recommendations on Canada’s first legislation addressing artificial intelligence. (Brief to the Standing Committee on Industry and Technology)
Note: A previous National Executive Committee used its Digital Disruption and Transformation Sub-Committee to discuss AI. (link for registered members only)
September 27, 2023 - CAPE meets with Translation Bureau CEO, discuss AI and interpreters’ health and safety
September 17, 2019 - CAPE and Translation Bureau meet to discuss artificial intelligence
