Public servants uneasy as government 'spy' robot prowls federal offices

A device federal public servants call «the little robot» began appearing in Gatineau office buildings in March.

It travels through the workplace to collect data using about 20 sensors and a 360-degree camera, according to Yahya Saad, co-founder of GlobalDWS, which created the robot.

«Using AI on the robot, the camera takes the picture, analyzes and counts the number of people and then discards the image,» he said.

Part of a platform known as VirBrix, the robot also gathers information on air quality, light levels, noise, humidity, temperature and even measures CO2, methane and radon gas.

The aim is to create a better work environment for humans — one that isn't too hot, humid or dim. Saad said that means more comfortable and productive employees.

The technology can also help reduce heating, cooling and hydro costs, he said.

«All these measures are done to save on energy and reduce the carbon footprint,» Saad explained.

After the pilot program in March, VirBrix is set to return in July and October, and the government hasn't ruled out extending its use. It's paying $39,663 to lease the robot for two years.

Public servants feeling spied upon

Bruce Roy, national president of the Government Services Union, called the robot's presence in federal workplaces «intrusive» and «insulting.»

«People feel observed all the time,» he said in French. «It's a spy. The robot is a spy for management.»

Roy, whose union represents more than 12,000 federal workers across several departments, said the robot is unnecessary because the employer already has ways of monitoring employee attendance and performance.

«We believe that one of the robot's tasks is to monitor who is there and who is not,» he said.

«Folks say, why is there a robot here? Doesn't my