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Friday December 1, 2023

The Online News Act in Canada, a groundbreaking legislative framework securing fair compensation for news outlets from tech giants like Google and Meta, contrasts with the hot air of opposition leader Pierre Poilievre, who remains skeptical and resistant, raising concerns about fair terms, media sustainability, and the effectiveness of government agreements in shaping the news ecosystem.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday December 1, 2023

A Step Forward, Poilievre’s Stance a Step Back

December 6, 2022

In a recent breakthrough, Google and the federal government have forged an agreement over the Online News Act, marking a significant stride towards fair compensation for Canadian news outlets. The deal ensures that Google will continue sharing Canadian news online, accompanied by annual payments totaling around $100 million to support the news industry.

Heritage Minister Pascale St-Onge, instrumental in the negotiations, expressed confidence in addressing Google’s concerns, emphasizing the importance of finding common ground. The regulatory framework, incorporated into the C-18 legislative framework, is poised to be unveiled by mid-December, showcasing a commitment to transparency and accountability.

News: Ottawa agrees to $100-million deal with Google to keep news on platform  

August 4, 2023

The agreement, a product of extensive talks, not only secures financial support for news organizations but also addresses Google’s reservations about the Online News Act’s structural aspects. Kent Walker, Google’s president of global affairs, expressed gratitude for the government’s responsiveness to their concerns, acknowledging the commitment to address core issues.

However, amid this positive development, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre remains a notable critic. Poilievre has consistently opposed the idea of globalist tech firms compensating Canadians for the content they use to generate profits. His stance, epitomized by a proposed “Online News Don’t Act,” raises concerns about the fair treatment of local journalists.

April 15, 2023

While Google embraces negotiations and financial contributions, Poilievre’s reluctance to support the Online News Act suggests a different vision. The contrast between Google’s willingness to engage in fair compensation and Poilievre’s non-act approach underscores the potential implications for the Canadian news landscape.

The government’s success in reaching an agreement with Google sets a precedent for other countries, showcasing the effectiveness of legislation like Bill C-18. This achievement stands in stark contrast to Poilievre’s skepticism and reluctance to acknowledge the positive impact of regulatory frameworks.

News: Conservatives ran on similar media policy as Liberals, but now claim it’s censorship  

March 2, 2023

As Prime Minister Justin Trudeau hails the agreement as “very good news” and emphasizes the support for local journalism, Poilievre’s dissenting voice seems out of touch with the demonstrated commitment to a thriving news ecosystem. It is crucial to recognize the importance of fair compensation for journalists and the potential positive influence of legislation like the Online News Act.

The deal with Google represents a positive leap forward for Canadian media, demonstrating the effectiveness of legislative frameworks. While celebrating this achievement, it is essential to scrutinize and question opposition voices like Pierre Poilievre, who appear resistant to measures aimed at securing fair compensation for the backbone of our information ecosystem – our journalists. (AI)

 

Friday August 4, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday August 4, 2023

Canada’s News Ban Sparks Global Debate on Tech Giants and Journalism Protection

June 12, 2019

In February 2021, Australia witnessed a showdown between tech giants Facebook and Google and the Australian government over a proposed law that would have required these platforms to pay media companies for the news stories appearing on their sites. In response, Facebook decided to block news on its platform in Australia, sending shockwaves across the globe.

Fast forward to June 2023, and Canada faced a similar crossroads. Rather than negotiating a deal like Australia, Ottawa passed the Online News Act, mandating that tech giants like Meta (formerly known as Facebook) compensate news outlets for the content they share or repurpose. In a move of defiance, Meta announced the end of news availability on its platforms in Canada.

The question now is whether Canada missed an opportunity to avoid this situation and secure a better deal. Some industry leaders and academics seemed to believe that the Australian incident was merely a bluff and that Meta would back down. They underestimated the tech giant’s resolve and misread the situation.

News: Meta begins removing news access for Canadians on Facebook, Instagram

March 2, 2023

The crucial difference between Australia’s legislation and Canada’s Online News Act lies in the concept of “designation.” In Australia, the News Media Bargaining Code granted the government the power to designate digital platforms like Meta and Google, effectively forcing them to pay for news. However, the Australian government removed this aspect during negotiations, allowing Meta and Google to make separate deals with media companies on their own terms.

Consequently, Meta and Google struck deals with more than 30 Australian media companies, resulting in approximately $200 million in value to news organizations. In contrast, the Canadian law lacks this flexibility, making it challenging for the government to engage in such negotiations.

While many believe the issue revolves around money, it runs deeper. Tech giants like Meta fear being regulated and setting a precedent that might apply to other jurisdictions. They don’t want to be cornered into accepting Canadian legislation and subsequently face pressure to do the same elsewhere. The outcome of this struggle will have global implications, as other countries and regions observe how these tech giants respond to regulatory measures.

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October 15, 2020

However, beyond the financial and regulatory aspects, there is an underlying concern for Canadian journalism. The absence of news on platforms like Meta leaves a void that online trolls may exploit. By depriving trolls of mainstream Canadian news to devour, regurgitate, and berate, a news ban could help protect the integrity of journalism and promote responsible online discourse.

Canada’s decision to pass the Online News Act without a flexible designation mechanism might have limited its ability to negotiate deals with tech giants, resulting in a news ban similar to Australia’s earlier experience. Beyond financial considerations, the battle between tech giants and governments raises broader questions about regulation and global implications. Moreover, safeguarding Canadian journalism from online trolls adds another dimension to this debate. As we navigate this complex landscape, it is essential to strike a balance between protecting journalism and ensuring fair and responsible regulation of tech giants in the digital age. (AI)