Lines, Michael

How do Canada’s copyright laws affect you? How should existing laws be modernized?
Current copyright laws give too long a term to owners. this impoverishes our culture by stifling innovation, and also by contributing to the monopoly powers of corporations.

Based on Canadian values and interests, how should copyright changes be made in order to withstand the test of time

Balance is needed. Copyright law should be based on a fair evaluation of competing interests. That evaluation should be based on independent research, and not on the verifiably distorted numbers and messages put forward by industry and other interested parties, such as the RIAA and lobbyists.

What sorts of copyright changes do you believe would best foster innovation and creativity in Canada?
Reduction of copyright term to the 25-year range. Elimination of Crown Copyright. Resistance to prohibitions on reverse engineering, to media industry-influenced technical specifications in electronic devices, to a regime where a notice of infringement can suppress speech without verification of infringement.

What sorts of copyright changes do you believe would best foster competition and investment in Canada?
As above.

What kinds of changes would best position Canada as a leader in the global, digital economy?
As above. The US model is an invitation to failure. When industry reponds to the new environment creatively instead of defensively, there may emerge more tenable methods to promote innovation and investment. DMCA sytle reactions only prolong the transition and reduce innovation.