Not sure if anyone else feels same way, but with the inevitable and predicted move to 100% digital processes, access to technology and transparency become so much more important. I think private companies responsible for building tech shouldn't be holding closed door briefings.
Data/technological 'tips' in the hands of anyone is power is leverage and is the potential for inequity. I hope IRCC can ensure this level playing field, especially where profit companies are involved in either building or benefitting, off of this transformation.
There's a whole bunch of conversations with have to have about algorithms. It is hopeful that there is an Artificial Intelligence and Data Act in early stages, but that excludes Fed Government departments like #IRCC.
It is unclear from my reading how this will impact private companies on Government contract, but the potential for cross-pollination of work and data mining is totally there. As I mentioned, I have heard of way too many companies who hid data mining/tech behind another practice.
I think there needs to be a codified Government regulation as well (as contemplate in AIDA) that ensures larger coverage. I've also been concerned with a few AIA process emails I've read. I think the public should know step by step how these are conducted + anti-racism lens used.
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"Statistics on the use of indicators and word flags are not tracked globally, though the information if present on individual applications would appear in notes in GCMS."
Not really - if it "shows up" only as a redaction for Applicants but can be seen by IRCC/DOJ in litigation.
Also, the fact it is not tracked globally is likely because each Visa Office is given it's own autonomy to do it's own thing - something that will clash with creating a centralized AI-based decision-making system.
For those who insist that we're in some post-racial dream world, here's exhibit 1 - how visa office in Ghana requests the *exact* same documents requested by a visa office in the U.K.
London: if you do not send documents in time it could delay your application.
Ghana: we're going to throw a procedural fairness letter and a request letter together and warn you about s.16 IRPA right away. Note for non-immi folks: this is a way to fast-track a refusal + open up misrep. #cdnimm#racism
Also Ghana: you better answer truthfully or we will refuse you. The word 'refusal' shows up four times in the letter and 'truthful' twice.
Again for non-#cdnimm folks: can refuse a sponsorship on s.16 for not providing docs and s.40 for misrep. Usually a PFL sent IF concerns.
Interesting. We presented on the changes which seemed to suggest visitor record were not going to be issued to accompanying dependents of international students. Now it's changed again and frankly - it's back to the confusion on what helping to establish in Canada means. #cdnimm
CBSA instructions link in the PDIs is broken (cc: @CitImmCanada) but if it were linked correctly you need to go to this link as the actual questionnaire doesn't differentiate between international students/family of international student. travel.gc.ca/travel-covid/t…
In sum, those who are approved with study permits + are bringing accompanying spouse/dependent will get asked about their reason for travel (non-discretionary = help intl student 'establish' in Canada) + importantly demonstrate adequate funds for stay in Canada. #cdnimm#intled
BIPOC lawyer's dilemma (talked about this w/several in circle):
You see injustice/racism in work (place/society). Do you speak out/write/comment/show up?
Evaluate risk: Firm of WM/WW firm partners, be seen as not neutral/objective/activist/distracted/counter client interests.
Choice: You swallow your salty blood-tinged saliva. You make pro forma statement when asked by firm your thoughts in round table discussion. You message BIPOC friends in texts/messages expressing solidarity. You realize you have not shown up as authentic self within both spaces.
Yrs later you hope your historical silence but model minority advocacy (acting on positive stuff, diversity committees, feel good/back pat/raise up all work) gets you enough clout for you to be elevate to partner/get a judicial/board nomination or else focus on family.