Ottawa is set to introduce a novel federal entity focused on leveraging digital technologies to enhance Canadians’ access to and interaction with government services. A press release from the Prime Minister’s Office on Thursday revealed the establishment of Digital Transformation Canada, which aims to revamp the government’s approach to developing, procuring, and utilizing technology, among other key objectives. The PMO also disclosed the appointment of Patrick Pichette as the new CEO of Digital Transformation Canada.
Pichette, who served as Google’s chief financial officer from 2008 to 2015 and held executive roles at Bell Canada, McKinsey, and Sprint Canada, brings a wealth of expertise in digital transformation, innovation, and organizational change to the initiative, as remarked by Prime Minister Mark Carney. The newly formed agency plans to implement digital solutions, including artificial intelligence, across the government landscape to streamline operations, cut costs, enhance digital sovereignty and security, and promote Canadian technology firms.
In support of modernizing public service delivery, reducing redundancy, and fostering the growth of Canadian tech enterprises, Carney emphasized that strengthening the economy, improving outcomes for Canadians, and positioning Canada as a digital leader are paramount. The release highlighted that the agency will empower public servants with tools to alleviate administrative burdens and boost the efficiency of government service delivery. Additionally, it outlined the agency’s commitment to utilizing federal funding to assist Canadian AI and digital companies in testing, scaling, and commercializing new technologies.
The oversight of the new agency will rest with Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works, and Procurement Joël Lightbound. It will amalgamate Shared Services Canada with segments of the Treasury Board Secretariat, Public Services and Procurement Canada, and Employment and Social Development Canada to streamline operations and enhance effectiveness within the public sector.
