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July 20, 2009
Government of Canada Launches National Consultations on Copyright Modernization
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 20, 2009 - The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, and the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today launched nationwide consultations to solicit Canadians' opinions on the important issue of copyright. "Canadians are concerned with copyright and its implications in our increasingly digital environment. Our goal is to give Canadians from across the country a chance to express their views on how the government should approach the modernization of copyright laws," said Minister Clement. "Your opinions and suggestions will help us draft new, flexible legislation so that Canada can regain its place on the cutting edge of the digital economy." "We all know that new technologies are changing the landscape and that Canadian copyright laws need to be updated," said Minister Moore. "By leveraging new technologies, we are providing as many people as possible with access to our consultative process through interactive, web-based and real-time discussions. With today's launch, we are on track to introducing modern and responsive copyright legislation in the fall." The consultations will run until September 13, 2009, and will include a number of different avenues for Canadians to participate, including an online discussion forum as well as a submission centre for posting detailed submissions. A number of round tables have also been planned across Canada to canvass the views of experts and organizations on the kinds of amendments needed to position Canada as a world leader in the digital economy. Two town hall meetings will also be webcast on the consultation site, allowing Canadians in all parts of the country to participate in the conversation via the Internet. In today's digital environment, Canadian copyright laws need to be updated to foster innovation and economic growth, and give Canadian creators and consumers the tools they need to keep Canada competitive internationally. Visit www.copyrightconsultation.ca to find out how you can engage in the consultations. The online consultations will end on September 13, 2009.
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