27822 (2025). Francisco Hernandez to the Minister of Health

27822 (2025). Francisco Hernandez to the Minister of Health: How, if at all, was any AI tool used in the Minister’s Facebook post of 15 April 2025 regarding the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists union’s planned strike for 1 May?

Hon Simeon Brown: As I said in Written Parliamentary Questions 4538 (2025), 4625 (2025), and 4630 (2025), artificial intelligence software is used from time to time. This includes the use of AI software, specifically Otter.ai, for transcribing audio recordings of events such as media stand-ups. The resulting transcriptions often assist in preparing written communications, including content for my Facebook posts regarding the union strikes planned for 1 May 2025. Additionally, tools such as Grammarly use artificial intelligence. As the Member will appreciate, artificial intelligence is a tool that is increasingly common and widely used. For example, I am advised that Microsoft Copilot is offered to Ministerial Services staff as part of the Office 365 Suite. The use of artificial intelligence tools is guided by the Public Service AI Framework developed by the Department of Internal Affairs. This framework ensures that these tools are used responsibly, with human oversight, and in a manner that upholds transparency, trust, and accountability. More information about this framework is available at the following link: https://www.digital.govt.nz/standards-and-guidance/technology-and-architecture/artificial-intelligence/public-service-artificial-intelligence-framework