Michael Geist - Moore Says Copyright Reform Bill Likely in the Fall

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Moore Says Copyright Reform Bill Likely in the Fall

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Moore Says Copyright Reform Bill Likely in the Fall

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Tuesday February 10, 2009

Canadian Heritage Minister James Moore appeared before the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage yesterday. Liberal MP Scott Simms asked specific questions about the future of Canadian copyright reform. Moore confirmed the shared responsibility for copyright with Industry Minister Tony Clement. He indicated that the timing for a new bill was still being worked out, but that the fall was more likely than the spring. He also acknowledged some of the concerns associated with Bill C-61, though argued that it moved in the "right direction."

Moore's opening remarks are also noteworthy, since they demonstrate that the Clement - Moore duo may be the most technologically savvy Ministers in the Industry - Heritage portfolios in recent memory. Notes Moore:

Rapidly changing technologies are having a huge impact on the sector; they are bringing challenges but also new opportunities. There are now more ways to reach audiences- for instance social networking websites such as Facebook and Myspace. In fact, 34% of Canadians under the age of 20 use such sites to discover new music and art. The cultural industry is reaching them there - building artists’ profiles online instead of advertising through the traditional means such as flyers, radio and television.

Fewer people are buying CDs because they want more flexibility and choice. Instead of buying a whole album, they want to pick and choose their songs. This is something the industry is starting to deal with. They need to do more, and I will continue working with them to ensure we have a sustainable policy framework.

and later:

As well, we need policies that focus on innovation so that the cultural sector can continue to be a strong driver of economic growth. I believe the National Film Board is on the right track here. In honour of its 70th anniversary, the Board has put the better part of 900 films online free of charge. Day or night, anywhere in the country, Canadians now have access to this important part of their cultural heritage.

The hearing is only currently available as a webcast, which is worth watching are Moore comes across as far more personable and informed than his predecessor.

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anonymous said:

Personability
Hopeful for some wisdom, but personability was what got George W. Bush elected. Twice.

February 10, 2009

Anon said:

Net Neutrality: The Internet is For Everyone
Here is what I got from Justin Beach on Facebook:
"
Canadians have until February 16 to weigh in on Net Neutrality. If you already know what that is visit

http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/crtc_submission

and let the CRTC know what you think. If you're not sure what Net Neutrality is visit

http://www.publicbroadcasting.ca/2009/02/net-neutrality-last-chance-to-weigh-in.html
"
I would also like to refer you to this RFC by Vint Cerf, called "The Internet is For Everyone".

http://www.faqs.org/rfcs/rfc3271.html

February 10, 2009

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