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Archived - Welles, Darrell
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In response to the questions posed, I offer the following:
Questions
- How do Canada's copyright laws affect you?
Our copyright laws affect me and my family each and every day. Principally it affects our choices for entertainment and computer software, and what we can lawfully do with the content that we have paid for.
- How should existing laws be modernized?
This is a loaded question as it presumes agreement that the law needs modernization. There is nothing inherently better about "modern" legislation. In my opinion, current copyright law is sufficiently "modern".
- Based on Canadian values and interests, how should copyright changes be made in order to withstand the test of time?
I am not convinced that any changes are warranted at this time. The current law protects my interests as a citizen and consumer of copyrighted materials. Moreover, despite allegations brought forward by the copyright lobby, in my opinion, the interests of artists and other producers of intellectual property are adequately protected in Canada under existing legislation and civil law.
- What sorts of copyright changes do you believe would best foster innovation and creativity in Canada?
Per the previous answer, I do not believe changes are necessary at this time. However, I would suggest that copyright law that is permissive with respect to "fair dealing/fair use" as compared to the status quo should be considered over the addition of new restrictions.
- What sorts of copyright changes do you believe would best foster competition and investment in Canada?
This should not be the goal of copyright legislation.
- What kinds of changes would best position Canada as a leader in the global, digital economy?
I am not of the opinion that becoming a "leader in the global, digital economy" is a suitable goal for copyright law, especially if it means that the rights and freedoms of citizens to fully enjoy the copyrighted materials that they purchase are compromised. It is not the purpose, and should not be the purpose of copyright law to grow the Canadian economy or extend monopolistic business models indefinitely into the future. Copyright law should be treated as a tool for improving our cultural heritage and resources. It should give appropriate incentive for the creation of works and materials that benefit us all, and not stand as an unecessary encumbrance to the derivative use of those materials in ways not foreseen by their creators, but by which all Canadians profit. I believe that Canada can become a leader in this issue by listening to the voice of its people and remaining a bastion of sane copyright law.
As a Canadian I value my freedom, and our fair and just society. However, the character of society is changing. Our future is digital. Elsewhere in the world (US) governments have brought forward legislation to create digital chains (eg. the Digital Millenium Copyright Act) for the people. Please do not allow copyright law to similarly shackle us in Canada.
Sincerely,
Darrell Welles
Frederiction, MB
