The Gazette: Canada considers copyright laws

The Gazette: Canada considers copyright laws
Sarah Berman

New copyright laws severely limiting the use of digital media could be hitting the Canadian Parliament table as early as Jan. 28.

From reproducing academic materials, to ripping music to your computer, to taping your favourite television shows, critics speculate a crackdown on a wide range of day-to-day student activities.

The legislation, put forth by the federal government, has been opposed by many members of the academic community, including the Canadian Federation of Students (CFS).

“Over the past 20 years, amendments to copyright law have tightened restrictions, making it harder for end-users and more profitable for large corporations,” Ben Lewis, national treasurer for CFS, said.

CFS is concerned because the government has offered no public consultation on the issue, but has consistently met with American representatives behind closed doors. This suggests American-style regulations will be brought forward in Parliament over the next couple of weeks.