Principles-based Digital Charter demonstrates commitment to drive economic growth, innovation and trust in privacy: National tech industry association

OTTAWA, ON (May 21, 2019)Today’s announcement by the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED Minister Navdeep Bains) of a new Digital Charter shows the federal government is taking the necessary steps to take a more modern approach to data that supports innovation and protects Canada’s citizens, according to the Information Technology Association of Canada (ITAC).

Data is shaping society and directly impacts modern day approaches to healthcare, education, business and communications.  “We live in a world where everyone and everything is interconnected; data is becoming more important to how we solve life’s most complex problems. A national Digital Charter will set Canadian business and citizen’s up for success – while simultaneously addressing the overarching concern for data privacy and sovereignty,” said Angela Mondou, ITAC president and CEO.

Today’s announcement comes after numerous industry-government consultations designed to create a new, made-in-Canada approaches to data. ITAC, along with its members and the wider information, communications and technology (ICT) industry,  has long encouraged the development of a strategy that maximizes the value of data for organizations;  supports innovation; fosters collaboration; and provides straightforward direction on transparency and accountability for organizations that own, develop, collect, use and share data.

“Recent federal investments in artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing and fifth generation (5G) are good examples of planning ahead for a data-driven digital economy,” adds Mondou. “Strengthening industries thriving on data helps improve talent retention and build deeper public-private partnerships. Canada has a unique opportunity to become a global leader on this global issue. By creating a value-based national framework that clearly communicates how Canadian businesses and citizens collect, use, disclose and share data actively, there is no limit to what we can achieve as a country.”

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 About Information Technology Association of Canada (ITAC)

As Canada’s national ICT business association, the Information Technology Association of Canada (ITAC) champions the development of a robust and sustainable digital economy in Canada. A vital connection between business and government, we provide our members with the advocacy, networking and professional development services that help them to thrive nationally and compete globally.

A prominent advocate for the expansion of Canada’s innovative capacity, ITAC encourages technology adoption to capitalize on productivity and performance opportunities across all sectors. A member-driven not-for-profit, ITAC has served as the authoritative national voice of the $170 billion ICT industry for over 60 years. More than 36,000 Canadian ICT firms create and supply goods and services that contribute to a more productive, competitive, and innovative society. The ICT sector generates over one million jobs directly and indirectly and invests $4.9 billion annually in R&D, more than any other private sector performer.

 

To arrange an interview, please contact:

Janet Gibson Eichner

905-602-8345 ext. 2235 or jgibson_eichner@itac.ca