What is the B.C. Ombudsperson's annual report about?

The report details an increase in complaints about public services, rising risks from AI use, and highlights cases of service failures in B.C.

How is artificial intelligence impacting B.C. public services?

AI can speed up processes, but the Ombudsperson warns of risks to fairness and the need for clear complaint procedures when AI makes adverse decisions.

Which B.C. ministries received the most complaints?

The Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction had the most complaints, followed by ICBC and the Ministry of Children and Family Development.

Home / Technology / Ombudsman Warns of 'Perfect Storm' in B.C. Public Service Access

Ombudsman Warns of 'Perfect Storm' in B.C. Public Service Access

19 Nov

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Summary

Over 7,300 complaints and inquiries received by B.C. Ombudsperson's office.
AI and a large provincial deficit create new risks for public service fairness.
Pediatric palliative care case highlights critical gaps in service coordination.

British Columbia's Ombudsperson, Jay Chalke, has raised concerns over a growing number of residents struggling to access public services, warning of an emerging "perfect storm." His office recorded over 7,300 complaints and inquiries in the past year, a notable increase. This situation is exacerbated by a significant provincial deficit, ongoing affordability challenges, and the increasing adoption of artificial intelligence in decision-making processes, which poses new risks to fairness.

The increasing use of AI in public services, from building permits to social support decisions, requires careful monitoring. While AI can expedite processes, Chalke emphasizes the critical need for fair complaint mechanisms when decisions are adverse, questioning the human oversight involved. The Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction was the most complained-about public body, with ICBC and the Ministry of Children and Family Development also receiving substantial numbers of complaints.