Moved third reading of Bill C-294, An Act to amend the Copyright Act (interoperability).

He said: Honourable senators, Bill C-294 is a critical piece of legislation that strikes at the heart of Canada, our farmers and small manufacturers. This bill is about unlocking innovation to help our farmers take their businesses to the next level and to encourage and foster innovation in the farming industry, especially for smaller operations.

At the core of this issue is the use of digital locks and keys that prevent different pieces of farm equipment from working together. It is something that benefits the major manufacturers while shutting out the smaller start-ups. This bill seeks to provide a much-needed update to protect our farmers and allow our local manufacturers to participate in the market.

There are many success stories from across this great country of people working in the fields, on the sea or wherever they may be, stories of common folk coming up with fixes to make their day-to-day work on the farm or on the wharf easier or more efficient. That’s where many innovative ideas come from. They are not all from a research lab, a classroom or even a boardroom. They come from the men and women who are doing the hands-on work and, often, they turn them into their own successful businesses.

Now they face challenges, as the larger corporations have found a way to dominate the market using our current Copyright Act in a manner that it was never intended to be used in and, in so doing, are pushing innovative smaller manufacturers out of the marketplace. As technology advances, it is imperative we stay on pace in updating our Copyright Act to align with the changing landscape.

When it comes to things like farm equipment, digital locks hinder innovation in a way that affects small manufacturers profoundly. These businesses are essential to their local economies. However, the constraints posed by digital locks and reduced interoperability are causing a significant drop in orders for small manufacturers. This legislation aims to unlock innovation, support our farmers, support homegrown manufacturers and maintain a healthy, competitive market.

It is time to update the Copyright Act and align it with our ever-evolving technological landscape to foster innovation, competition and a brighter future for our communities.

I’ll note once again this legislation received unanimous support from all parties in the House. Now that it has passed through our committee here, I hope we can find the same agreement to get this bill passed sooner rather than later. Our farmers and local manufacturers need every bit of help, and they can get right on it.

Thank you, colleagues, for your attention.