Members, the clerk has advised me that we have a quorum and all witnesses have been sound-tested and are okay. With that, I call to order meeting number 89 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities.
Pursuant to Standing Order 108(2), the committee is resuming its study on the implications of artificial intelligence technologies for the Canadian labour force.
Today’s meeting is taking place in a hybrid format, meaning that members are attending in person in the room and virtually.
You have the option to choose the official language of your choice. To participate, those appearing virtually can use the globe icon at the bottom of their Surface. If there is an interruption in the translation services, please get my attention by using the “raise hand” icon, and we'll suspend while it's being corrected.
I will remind members appearing in the room to keep their headsets clear of the mike to avoid the translators getting hearing feedback from your device. I would also ask members to speak clearly and slowly for the benefit of the interpreters.
We have two panels today.
With the first panel, we have, as an individual, appearing by video conference, James Bessen, professor and director of the technology and policy research initiative at Boston University; in person in the room, Angus Lockhart, senior policy analyst at the Dais at Toronto Metropolitan University; and, appearing by video conference, Olivier Carrière, executive assistant director to the Quebec director of Unifor.
Welcome back. I believe, Mr. Carrière, that there were issues the last time. Thank you for coming again.
We will begin with opening statements, beginning with you, Mr. Bessen, if you are ready with your opening statement for five minutes or less.