Title: Ottawa Receives Nearly 1,000 Budget Briefs Focused on AI

OTTAWA — The federal finance committee has gathered 948 briefs in preparation for the upcoming federal budget, with a significant number addressing issues related to artificial intelligence and digital policy. This marks the highest number of submissions the committee has received in recent years.

Among the notable requests is a proposal from HealthCareCAN, an organization representing hospitals, which is seeking over $1 billion in funding for AI and healthcare initiatives. The organization recommends that the government allocate $500 million to establish a national body focused on AI in healthcare. This body would facilitate expert testing and evaluation of AI technologies and create a centralized procurement model. Additionally, HealthCareCAN suggests that another $500 million be directed to regional hubs to develop and implement evidence-based AI solutions aimed at transforming the healthcare system. They also propose a further $100 million for an AI and digital literacy strategy targeting healthcare providers, patients, and policymakers.

Telecom company Rogers has urged the government to integrate digital infrastructure into energy corridors, ensuring connectivity is included in major national projects. The government recently launched a major projects office and announced its first approvals under new legislation designed to expedite large infrastructure projects, a move aimed at bolstering Canada’s economy amid tariff challenges from the United States.

The Council of Canadian Innovators has expressed concerns about the lack of a cohesive digital sovereignty strategy. They are advocating for the government to accelerate the development of sovereign computing and cloud infrastructure. Their recommendations include establishing data centers that meet Canadian security standards and creating sovereign identity management systems to support trusted domestic providers. They also call for a regulatory framework for sovereign digital infrastructure and a strategy that maintains interoperability while avoiding reliance on any single model or vendor.

IBM Canada has called for government investment in quantum computing infrastructure, warning that without improved access to advanced quantum computing resources, Canada risks falling behind other nations and its 5 Eyes partners, who are heavily investing in technologies critical to national defense and economic growth.

Airlines and airports have requested AI Minister Evan Solomon to promote a digital ID and biometrics strategy. The National Airlines Council of Canada and the Canadian Airports Council have proposed that the government establish a biometrics policy for all federal departments and agencies, ensuring it is supported by privacy protections and technology standards. They suggest that this initiative should involve amending federal laws to facilitate the use of biometrics in delivering government services to Canadians.

Rumble, a Canadian company hosting U.S. President Donald Trump’s Truth Social platform, is advocating for free speech in its opposition to online harms legislation. The company argues that the government should protect a free and open internet by refraining from enacting laws that could hinder free speech and expression online.

The federal budget is set to be unveiled on November 4, marking the first budget under Prime Minister Mark Carney's leadership.