Canadian Intellectual Property Council pleased with introduction of copyright
bill

OTTAWA, June 2 /CNW Telbec/ - The Canadian Intellectual Property Council (CIPC) today welcomed the introduction of Copyright Act amendments by the federal government.

"We applaud and fully support the government's efforts to update Canada's copyright regime," said CIPC Chair Bob Weese. "Canadian businesses need better protection against the enormous financial toll of online piracy. A strong and modern copyright law will also help our country compete more effectively in the global economy."

Bill C-32 is intended to bring Canada in line with other leading nations that have adopted the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Copyright Treaty and the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty.

An arm of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the CIPC is a Canadian business coalition that advocates for an improved intellectual property rights system in Canada. As IP-based businesses become increasingly important to Canada's economy, it is essential that they are able to compete on a level playing field internationally.

Beyond copyright reform, the CIPC seeks a broad range of measures to improve IP rights protection in Canada. This includes strengthening the current legislative framework by: updating the patent regime; clearly stipulating trade-mark counterfeiting as a specific criminal offence under the Trade-marks Act; amending the Criminal Code to criminalize intentional possession of counterfeit goods for the purpose of sale; and strengthening laws against product counterfeiting and piracy. Customs officials require new powers, and the associated additional resources, to search suspected shipments for counterfeit goods at the border and to communicate with IP rights holders to allow for effective criminal, civil and/or administrative enforcement and deterrence against distribution of counterfeit and pirated products.

Weese remarked, "We will review the legislation in detail and look forward to the opportunity to comment on the Bill as it makes its way through the legislative process."

For further information: Chris Gray, Office: [phone] ext. 251, Cell: [phone], [email protected]