Personal tools
You are here: Home → Project Reports → Copyright
 

Copyright

(Links to Strategy 2: Advocacy and Public Policy)

Project Sponsor: David Farrar

Staff Support: Jordan Carter

Project Status: Active Smiley_Indifferent   

Project Description:

InternetNZ's involvement with copyright issues was focused around development of a robust submission on the Copyright (New Technologies and Performers' Rights) Amendment Bill, lodged with Parliament in 2007.

The bill, with substantial variation, was passed with a new name in April 2008. In setting up a new set of safe-harbour provisions for ISPs, it (through last minute amendments) included an unworkable disconnection regime for ISPs to grapple with.

InternetNZ has been attempting since the Act was passed to work in good faith with representatives of rightsholders, ISPs and the government to try to solve the problems this rushed legislation has created.

Work is ongoing, in the context of InternetNZ's solid commitment to the importance of copyright, and the importance of copyright being workable in the very different context created by the Internet.

Overall Progress Summary (Nov 08):

In October 2008, the main focus of work in this area was to begin working with the TCF in their Working Group to devise a code of practice for ISPs in dealing with copyright issues. Further work is still required on developing InternetNZ's position on copyright issues.

 

Activities Planned for November 2008:

  • Continuing discussions with parties to achieve a compromise.
  • Participate in TCF Working Party in drafting a Code of Practice.
  • Continue developing InternetNZ's position on copyright issues.

Project History:

October 2008:

  • Participated in establishment of TCF Working Group to develop a code of practice for ISPs to use in implemening the Act's new requirements.

September 2008:

  • Project established formally.
  • Continuing discussions with parties to achieve a compromise.
  • Discussed situation with Telecommunications Carriers' Forum.
  • Continued developing InternetNZ's position on copyright issues, with a discussion at the Public Policy Committee meeting. General position is strong support of the principles of copyright, while needing to ensure it reflects the realities of the modern ICT environment.
Document Actions