Bill C-11 Recordings

Fixing Signals and Recording Programs for Later Listening or Viewing

In this section I have encountered something very interesting. If this bill were to pass, it would be legal for users to record shows provided they only record one copy (...(c) the individual makes no more than one recording of the program; ...). In our time, it is now possible to record shows on Personal Video Recorders (PVRs) provided by cable companies and on our personal computers. Often people may want a copy of the recording on a PVR so they can watch it on t.v. as well as take it with them on their computers. They do not intend to profit off the recordings. If the individual decides to claim one recording as a back up, then would this law allow them to own two copies?

I believe that this clause is trying to find a balance between allowing consumers to own a copy of broadcasting and controlling the quantity they own. However, I believe that this clause is too restrictive for the consumers because it is trying to dictate how the consumer should handle a situation in their private life. Moreover, I believe that this clause does not reflect the use of technology in the modern society. Consumers purchase technology and want to take advantage of it. They like to incorporate it into their everyday lives, even if they don't need it. No financial harm will occur to anyone if this clause is removed.

Another interesting condition in this clause is that the user is not allowed to retain the copy permanently (...(d) the individual keeps the recording no longer than is reasonably necessary in order to listen to or view the program at a more convenient time; ...). This I believe is also a compromise between allowing the user to make a recording and appeasing the media industry. However, I believe that this clause has no place in our society. This is an infringement on freedom. The government should not be able to dictate how long we own certain things. If a consumer has legally obtained something, for example a recording they made of a broadcasted event, they should be allowed to keep it as long as they want to.