Canada Presses On In Modernising Digital Laws

by Amanda Banks, Tax-News.com, London

27 June 2001

The Canadian government has launched a process of consultation to enable it to reform and modernise its existing copyright laws. Its aim is to incorporate provisions that will adapt the legislation to a 'fast-changing digital environment.'

The publication of 'A Framework For Copyright Reform' outlines the context and process for reform and sets out the government's intention to consider copyright reform proposals, consult Canadians and develop legislative amendments on a step-by-step basis.

Brian Tobin, Minister of Industry, explains: 'Canada needs a copyright framework that continuously adapts to a fast-changing digital environment. The Copyright Act is an important lever to promote innovation, entrepreneurship and success in the new economy. A world-class copyright regime can help us grow the Internet, electronic commerce and e-learning in Canada.'

According to the Canadian government, the review will ensure that Canada's copyright framework will be among the most modern and progressive in the world. As a first step in the reform process, the government is also releasing two consultation papers on important Internet issues. The 'Consultation Paper On Digital Copyright Issues' explores potential solutions to key digital copyright issues. And the 'Application of the Copyright Act's Compulsory Retransmission Licence to the Internet' addresses the rules by which radio and television signals may be retransmitted over the Internet.

Further information about the copyright legislation and the consultation papers can be found at: http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/SSG/rp01100e.html

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