OTTAWA— Conservative MPs are feeling the heat from Canadians who are angry about the Conservative plan to fine Canadians up to $5000 for simple things like transferring movies from a DVD to an iPad.
According to copyright expert Michael Geist, Conservative MP Lee Richardson has been telling concerned constituents that it’s OK to break the new law in order to circumvent digital locks. Mr. Richardson wrote:
“If a digital lock is broken for personal use, it is not realistic that the creator would choose to file a law suit against the consumer, due to legal fees and time involved.”
If Mr. Richardson really believes that it’s OK to violate the proposed law, why not simply amend the legislation to make circumventing a digital lock for personal use a legal activity?
Thousands of Canadians have spoken out against digital locks, expressing concern that their rights will be taken away. Under this legislation, Canadians could be fined $5000 if they listen to Mr. Richardson and break the law. It is clear that the Conservatives are not listening to Canadians, and instead are beholden to pressure from American industry.
Michael Geist’s blog post is available at this link: http://www.michaelgeist.ca/
