Evan Solomon becomes Canada’s first AI Minister as PM Carney launches a new digital innovation ministry to boost AI growth, talent, and regulation.
Canada Appoints First Federal AI Minister to Lead Digital Innovation
In a landmark political move, Prime Minister Mark Carney has reshaped Canada’s digital future by creating a dedicated Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation. Former journalist Evan Solomon, a newly elected MP from Toronto Centre, was sworn in on Tuesday as the country’s first-ever federal minister focused solely on artificial intelligence.
This historic appointment signals a shift in Canada’s approach to AI—from academic leadership to aggressive commercialization and policy reform.
From Journalist to Cabinet: Evan Solomon Takes the Digital Reins
Evan Solomon, a familiar face in Canadian media through his work at CBC and CTV, enters federal politics with a new mission—steering Canada’s AI strategy at the national level. Elected in April from Toronto Centre, Solomon’s elevation to this newly formed cabinet post marks a defining moment in the intersection of media, technology, and governance.
His role will now span key areas including AI policy, digital transformation of government services, and fostering a robust AI talent ecosystem.
A Strategic Shift: AI Moves Beyond Industry Portfolio
Previously managed under the industry ministry—now led by Mélanie Joly—AI has been spun out into its own portfolio, highlighting its rising strategic importance. The shift suggests a focused push toward AI integration across economic, regulatory, and social systems in Canada.
The former government’s proposed AI regulation bill, which targeted high-impact systems, failed to pass before the recent election. With a dedicated ministry now in place, legislative momentum around AI governance is expected to accelerate.
Economic Promise and a Digital Vision for Canada
Throughout the election campaign, Carney championed AI as a cornerstone of Canada’s economic growth. His platform outlined bold proposals: AI-focused tax incentives for small and mid-sized enterprises, expansion of AI training programs, and rapid development of new data centres.
The government also pledged to enhance Canada’s world-class AI institutes and ensure homegrown innovations stay in the country—addressing longstanding concerns about the nation’s inability to retain AI-related intellectual property.
Building AI Talent and a Smarter Government
Alongside economic development, the new ministry is tasked with transforming public services through artificial intelligence. A dedicated Office of Digital Transformation will lead efforts to streamline operations and improve efficiency.
Carney’s strategy includes ramping up AI talent development across sectors, aiming to create a workforce equipped to thrive in a tech-driven economy.
Limited Focus on AI Regulation, But Commitments on Deepfakes
While campaign discussions around AI regulation remained sparse, the party’s platform did commit to one major safeguard: criminalizing the distribution of non-consensual sexual deepfakes.
Observers expect Solomon’s ministry to address this and other ethical challenges as the national AI strategy evolves in the months ahead.
Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for the latest updates on Canada’s AI transformation.
