OTTAWA, June 20, 2005 -- Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women Liza Frulla and Minister of Industry David L. Emerson today announced that the Government of Canada has introduced a bill to amend the Copyright Act. The bill, which enacts the amendments identified in the Government Statement on Proposals for Copyright Reform, originally tabled on March 24, 2005, fulfills the Government's commitment to address short-term copyright reform issues and to update theCopyright Act to meet the challenges and opportunities of the Internet. "Canada's ability to foster an innovative economy depends on the creation, dissemination and commercialization of ideas. Innovators are rewarded, research is facilitated, and the use of technology is enhanced," said Minister Emerson. "I believe this bill will provide creators, intermediaries, and users of copyright material with the certainty and clarity that will allow them to take full advantage of the opportunities of the Internet.""We are very pleased to fulfill our commitment to table this legislation, which builds on the current copyright framework for the 21st century," said Minister Frulla. "These amendments strengthen our creators and cultural industries against the unauthorized use of their works on the Internet. This legislation strikes a balance to serve both our artists and users."The legislation is intended to implement the provisions of the 1996 World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Treaties, clarify liability for Internet service providers, facilitate the use of new technologies for educational and research purposes, and harmonize the treatment of photographers with that of other creators. Additional issues of concern in copyright law do remain, including the educational use of publicly available Internet material and private copying. The Government remains committed to opening consultations on these issues for additional public input and consideration as soon as possible.A backgrounder with highlights of the proposed legislation is attached. A series of frequently asked questions is available on the Internet at the following addresses: www.canadianheritage.gc.ca;http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/epic/internet/incrp-prda.nsf/en/h_rp01132e.html; and http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/epic/internet/inippd-dppi.nsf/en/h_ip00002e.html Information:Jean-François Del TorchioPress SecretaryOffice of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women(819) 997-7788Christiane FoxOffice of the Honourable David L. Emerson,Minister of Industry(613) 995-9001Myriam BrochuChief, Media RelationsDepartment of Canadian Heritage(819) 997-9314Annie CuerrierManager, Media RelationsIndustry Canada(613) 943-2502
