The Government of Canada announced that it has reintroduced legislation to modernize the Copyright Act.

For more information visit: www.balancedcopyright.gc.ca

Unedited press release follows:

Harper Government Delivers on Commitment to Reintroduce Copyright Modernization Act

OTTAWA, ONTARIO–(Sept. 29, 2011) – The Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of Industry, and the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced the reintroduction of the Government of Canada’s Copyright Modernization Act.

Recognizing the critical role a modern copyright regime plays in Canada’s digital economy, the Government is delivering on its commitment in the 2011 Speech from the Throne to introduce and seek swift passage of copyright legislation that balances the needs of creators and users. This legislation will ensure that Canada’s copyright laws are modern, flexible, and in line with current international standards.

“Canadians will soon have modern copyright laws that protect and help create jobs, promote innovation, and attract new investment to Canada,” said Minister Paradis. “We are confident that this bill will make Canada’s copyright laws forward-looking and responsive in this fast-paced digital world.”

“Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians to put in place measures to ensure Canada’s digital economy remains strong,” said Minister Moore. “Our Government recognizes how new technologies are changing the lives of many Canadians. This bill delivers a common-sense balance between the interests of consumers and the rights of the creative community.”

Modernizing Canada’s copyright laws is an important part of the Government’s strategy for the digital economy. Each year that Canada goes without modern copyright laws, the need for such modernization becomes more evident. The explosive popularity of social media and new technologies—such as tablet computers, mobile devices and digital book readers—has changed the way Canadians create and use copyrighted material.

This bill recognizes the many new ways in which teachers, students, artists, companies, consumers, families, and copyright owners use technology. It gives creators and copyright owners the tools to protect their work and to grow their businesses using new and innovative business models. It provides clearer rules that will enable all Canadians to fully participate in the digital economy, now and into the future.

For more information, visit www.balancedcopyright.gc.ca.