September 11, 2009

Hon. Tony Clement, M.P., P.C.
Minister of Industry
Copyright and International Intellectual Property Policy Directorate
235 Queen Street, 10th Floor
Ottawa ON K1A 0H5

Dear Minister:

The Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce is pleased to participate in the government’s consultations on copyright reform by submitting its views on reforms to copyright and intellectual property rights.

Reform is long overdue. Canada’s Copyright Act must align with international standards and today’s technology. Our chamber supported some of the key principles in Bill C-61 that was introduced in June 2008 to update copyright legislation.

First, any updates to the Copyright Act must support creativity and innovation. This is critical to growing and maintaining the knowledge-based economy.

Second, exclusive rights awarded under the Copyright Act must provide rights holders with the recognition and remuneration essential to sustaining creativity and innovation. These rights must be properly balanced with ensuring that consumers have access to - and ease of use of - these works. Copyright protection under the Act should also be updated to include the recognition of technical protection measures in a manner that promotes cultural innovation, competition, and investment. Getting the proper balance in new copyright legislation is vital.

We are one of Ontario’s largest chambers of commerce, representing 1,000 plus business members. Our members need the government and all political parties to support updating the Copyright Act to bring it up to date in the digital age and to provide more clarity for both consumers and content producers. We support the government’s efforts to introduce updated copyright legislation this fall.

Sincerely,

Debbi M Nicholson
President and CEO
Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce

CC. Hon. James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
CC.Glenn Thibeault,MP Sudbury
CC.Claude Gravelle, MP Nickel Belt
CC.Chris Gray, Director, Canadian Intellectual Property Council and Innovation Policy, Canadian Chamber of Commerce