Ottawa, December 4, 2013—The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Industry, today made the following statement on the recent return of Bill C-8, the Combating Counterfeit Products Act, to the House of Commons after careful study by the Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology:
"Counterfeit and pirated products are a growing menace in Canada and around the world that requires strong government action. These products hurt our economy, undermine innovation, impede economic growth, and threaten the health and safety of Canadians.
"Knock-off goods are not just handbags and watches. Recently, law enforcement authorities have reported that counterfeit car parts, batteries and even life-saving medicines are entering our market from abroad. Canadians depend on these everyday goods and expect the best from their brands. Canadians deserve that certainty in the same way legitimate business owners deserve the certainty that their brand—their reputation—is protected under the law.
"Our government is standing up for Canadian families and consumers by ensuring they do not fall victim to counterfeit products. We took action by introducing Bill C-8, the Combating Counterfeit Products Act, in the House of Commons on October 28, 2013. This legislation will give Canada's border guards new tools to work with rights holders in identifying and detaining counterfeit and pirated products at the border. The Government of Canada will not tolerate threats to consumer safety or to our economic integrity.
"As Canada continues to reach new and historic trade agreements with markets around the world, it is imperative that Canadians have an effective regime to protect intellectual property here at home.
"I welcome the recent return of Bill C-8 to the House of Commons, and I look forward to its swift passage by both the House and Senate."
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For further information (media only), please contact:
Jake Enwright
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable James Moore
Minister of Industry
613-995-9001
Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502
1-800-328-6189
media-relations@ic.gc.ca
