Access Copyright welcomes Copyright Board tariff decision

Friday, December 6, 2019

TORONTO (December 6, 2019) – Today, the Copyright Board of Canada issued a decision in relation to the Access Copyright Post-Secondary Educational Institution Tariffs, 2011-2014 and 2015-2017. 

The Copyright Board outlines a reasonable framework for universities and colleges (outside of Quebec) to copy and share works in Access Copyright’s repertoire while ensuring fair compensation to writers, visual artists and publishers for the use of their works in post-secondary institutions. This will ensure students will be able to access and learn from Canadian material that strongly resonate with them. While we believe it’s important that there is an opportunity for institutions to report what is copied under the tariff so Access Copyright can directly compensate creators and publishers whose works are copied, we are confident this decision will encourage creators and publishers, and post-secondary institutions to collaborate so that the content needs of students are met.

“On behalf of the 12,800 creators and 650 publishers that Access Copyright represents, we are pleased that the Copyright Board of Canada has issued its decision, which enables universities and colleges to easily copy and share content that aids and inspires learning. I am optimistic that we can work together,” said Cameron Macdonald, Chair of the Access Copyright Board of Directors.

The Copyright Board of Canada’s decision certifies tariffs for the copying of published works in Canadian post-secondary institutions outside of Quebec from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2017. It outlines the terms and conditions under which post-secondary institutions can copy works in Access Copyright’s repertoire as well as the annual rates for copying per full-time equivalent student. Until a new tariff is certified, the 2015-2017 tariff will remain in effect.

The Board certified the following rates for universities and colleges:

“The Copyright Board decision serves as the foundation for renewal of the symbiotic relationship that exists between creators and education after almost a decade of uncertainty. Access Copyright looks forward to working with our partners in education to ensure that students continue to have easy and affordable access to content” said Roanie Levy, President & CEO of Access Copyright.

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About Access Copyright

For over 30 years, Access Copyright has facilitated content use for educational and professional purposes. Access Copyright has helped people make customized use of published materials combined with an assurance that the original creators and publishers also benefit, so that they can continue creating new and innovative works. This is vitally important to a strong Canadian culture and to all who rely on quality publications.

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Amy Cormier, Access Copyright
acormier@accesscopyright.ca | 416.868.1620 x. 246