Bill C-32, aka, "An act to criminalize copy rights."

A lightly critical complaint about the anti-copy rights act:  http://www.ccer.ca/

Anyway, if you remember Bill C-61, the last attempt at passing an anti-consumer rights law, you may remember provision 29.23 which effectively permits broadcasters to disallow recording television or radio, or worse, automatically delete programs already recorded.

Why is a strong copyright act bad for you?  Modelled off of the US DMCA, bill C-32 is so strong that it will succumb to the same effects.  Copyright holders circumvent the right to free speech by threatening to invoke parts of the DMCA against users of Blogspot (Google's blogging site).  Even when there is no semblance of a violation, Blogspot removes entire blogs (without warning) out of fear of being hit with fines and criminal indictments.

Want to complain about an company, like say BP, and use their logo on your blog to help readers identify the company?  Too bad, that's counter to the DMCA, and it would be in violation of C-32 as well.  BP can then ask your ISP to delete your blog, or revoke your internet access and forward them your personal information by court order.  Free speech is stifled.

The other interesting thing not being discussed is enforcement parameters.  What level of scrutiny will be permitted without a warrant?  If you cross the border with any electronic device, you are obligated to submit to search, but if you have anything that looks suspect, they may simply opt to seize the device and let you sue (if you can afford it) to get it back, provided the data is not destroyed before you reacquire it.

Write your MP and let them know that you will not only not support them in the next election if they support this bill, but you will ensure everyone you know will not support them either.  If you have the displeasure of ever running into your MP, it is your right to tell them where you stand on this issue -- face to face.