Archive for September, 2008

CBC on Telecom in Canada

The CBC.ca has begun a special report on telecom in Canada, titled Disconnected. Today's articles include an interview with Jim Prentice and a look at mounting consumer frustration.

Read more ›

September 8, 2008 1 comment News

Digital Issues Deserve a Spot in Election Campaign

With a federal election now set for October 14th, the coming weeks will be dominated by political debate as each party seeks to make their case to voters across the country. My weekly technology law column (Toronto Star version, homepage version) notes that the election mode marks an important role reversal – after months of Canadians working to gain the attention of their elected officials, those same politicians will be knocking on doors, making phone calls, and participating in all-candidates meetings in an effort to seek them out.

The 2008 election therefore presents an exceptional opportunity to raise the profile of digital issues.  Not only do these policies touch on so-called core concerns such as the economy, the environment, education, and health care, but they also resonate with younger Canadians, who could help swing the balance of power in many ridings. In the United States election, both Barack Obama and John McCain have unveiled detailed digital policy positions.  Canadian leaders have yet to promote their policies, but there are at least five worth watching and asking about.

Read more ›

September 8, 2008 21 comments Columns

Digital Issues Deserve a Spot in Election Campaign

Appeared in the Toronto Star on September 8, 2008 as Digital Issues Deserve a Spot in Election Campaign With a federal election now set for October 14th, the coming weeks will be dominated by political debate as each party seeks to make their case to voters across the country. The […]

Read more ›

September 8, 2008 Comments are Disabled Columns Archive

Isohunt Files Suit Against CRIA

TorrentFreak reports that Isohunt, a Canadian-based torrent tracker, has filed suit against the Canadian Recording Industry Association. Isohunt is seeking a confirmation that it does not infringe Canadian copyright law.

Read more ›

September 6, 2008 2 comments News

61 Reforms to C-61, Day 55: E-Reserve Provisions Require DRM

The problems with the e-reserve provisions in C-61 extend beyond just the fair dealing concerns.  In order to qualify for the exception, librarians are required to implement DRM-based solutions on the distribution of electronic materials.  Yesterday I pointed to the provision that expressly permits digital reproduction.  Section 30.02(3) adds two […]

Read more ›

September 5, 2008 9 comments News