Magazines Canada - Nouvelles

CPF Funding Remains Intact in New Federal Budget

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 09:00:00 -0400

In a note to the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Magazines Canada thanked the Government of Canada for its continued commitment to the Canada Periodical Fund and the Canada Council for the Arts.

The CPF, modernized under Minister Moore's direction, is meeting its objectives. It is not only helping Canadians connect to Canadian content, it is helping the nation's magazine media reach new audiences on digital platforms. A further benefit is that there are enhanced opportunities for new skills employment in this vibrant media space.

Magazines Canada is pleased that this effective resource will continue support Canadian magazine content.

New Fund to Help Innovative Companies Grow

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 09:00:00 -0400

The Ontario government is proceeding with its plan to create a new venture capital fund that will assist innovative startup and other emerging companies with financing to build competitive businesses and create tomorrow’s jobs.

This new fund builds on the already successful Ontario Venture Capital Fund, which invests in Ontario-focused funds that support growing companies. The Ontario Venture Capital Fund was created in 2008, and has leveraged $750 million in private capital.

As committed in the Speech from the Throne, the government will contribute up to $50 million to the new fund, which could reach $300 million with the participation of private investors. The province is working with the federal government and institutional corporate investors to develop this fund.

Click here for more information.

Magazines Canada Joins Business Coalition to Raise Alarm on Anti-Spam Regulations

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 09:00:00 -0500

In regards to Canada's anti-spam legislation (or CASL), Magazines Canada's view is that moving ahead with both Industry Canada's proposed regulations, and draft CRTC regulations as crafted, will cause damage to Canada's magazine media's capacity to engage with and serve Canadians. They will add unnecessary cost and may actually forbid some common consumer-accepted practices. This will be bad for business and will generate consumer frustration in an economic environment that can only be described as fragile.

In addition to its own submission, Magazines Canada joined with the Coalition of Business and Technology Associations (CBTA) on a common submission in response to Industry Canada.

The CBTA is a group of organizations representing a broad cross-section of Canadian businesses, such as sole proprietorships, small- and medium-sized businesses, and largest Canadian and multi-national firms. The Association is comprised of:

Association of International Automobile Manufacturers of Canada
Canadian Bankers Association
Canadian Chamber of Commerce
Canadian Federation of Independent Business
Canadian Marketing Association
Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association
Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers' Association
Electro-Federation of Canada
Entertainment Software Association of Canada
Information Technology Association of Canada
Interactive Advertising Bureau of Canada
Magazines Canada
Retail Council of Canada

Read Magazines Canada's submission on the CASL regulations.

Read the Coalition of Business and Technology Associations' submission on the CASL regulations.

Rappel aux associations de périodiques et de journaux non-quotidiens : Financement disponible en 2013-2014

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 09:15:00 -0500

Le volet des Initiatives collectives du Fonds du Canada pour les périodiques vous invite à soumettre vos demandes de financement pour des projets visant à accroître la viabilité globale des industries canadiennes des périodiques et des journaux non-quotidiens, pour du financement à partir du 1 avril 2013. Il est recommandé de soumettre vos demandes complètes au moins quatre mois avant la date de début du projet; le programme reçoit les demandes tout au long de l’année.

Pour plus de renseignements concernant le programme, notamment les critères d'admissibilité, les formulaires de demande et les exigences qui y sont liées ainsi que le processus d'évaluation, veuillez consulter le site Web de Patrimoine canadien au lien suivant : pch.gc.ca/fra/1267312830781

Le FCP vient de lancer son guide du demandeur pour l'Innovation commerciale pour 2013-14

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 14:42:00 -0500

Le Fonds du Canada pour les périodiques (FCP) vient de lancer son guide du demandeur pour l'Innovation commerciale pour 2013-2014. Ce volet offre du financement aux petites et moyennes maisons d'édition de magazines imprimés et périodiques numériques admissibles. Il encourage l'adaptation aux fluctuations du marché grâce à l'innovation et contribue à la diversité du contenu recherché par les lecteurs canadiens.

Pour plus de détails concernant les critères d'admissibilité des maisons d'édition, des périodiques et des projets; les exigences relatives au processus de demande ou d'évaluation ainsi que les formulaires de demande, veuillez consulter le site Web de Patrimoine canadien (PCH).

Nouveau :

Le FCP mettra en œuvre, à partir du cycle de financement 2014-2015, les critères du prix minimal moyen pour les copies vendues par abonnement et à l'unité. Je vous invite à lire attentivement l’Avis concernant les critères du prix minimal moyen disponible dans notre guide sur notre site Web.
Veuillez noter qu'il n'y a plus de date de tombée pour soumettre une demande au sous-volet Innovation commerciale pour les périodiques numériques.

Il est recommandé de soumettre vos demandes au moins quatre mois avant la date de début du projet. Les demandes sont acceptées tout au long de l'année.

Pour toute question, n'hésitez pas à communiquer avec le programme :
Téléphone : 1.800.641.9221 (numéro sans frais au Canada)
courriel : fcp-cpf@patrimoinecanadien.gc.ca

Access Copyright Begins New Chapter

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 14:00:00 -0500

Access Copyright has announced the appointment of Roanie Levy as its new Executive Director. Ms. Levy takes the helm having held senior positions with Access Copyright for eleven years. A member of the Executive Team, most recently Ms. Levy's role was General Counsel and Director of Policy and External Affairs. She has degrees from the London School of Economics, Dalhousie University, and Université de Montréal.

"Ms. Levy brings leadership, experience and a wealth of knowledge in working with creators and publishers, as well as the many educators, learners and other content users that Access Copyright serves. Her experience uniquely positions her to guide Access Copyright in developing innovative products and services which respond to both the new legislative environment and new user requirements," said Nancy Gerrish, Board Co-Chair.

"I look forward to this next chapter, both for me personally, and for Access Copyright," said Levy. "I am excited by the opportunities before us, to strike new partnerships, further increase the value of what we offer, and serve all our stakeholders-creators, publishers, educators, readers, and learners-with purpose and conviction."

Ms. Levy will replace incumbent Maureen Cavan, who announced her plans to retire earlier this year after eight years with Access Copyright. Ms. Levy will assume the role on January 1, 2013.

"We are grateful for the tireless service that Maureen Cavan has given our organization," said Gerrish. "She provided guidance and direction through a period of rapid change in the world of publishing and content creation. We wish her all the best for a happy and healthy retirement."

"It has been a pleasure to lead Access Copyright through these past challenging years of copyright reform, the transition to digital content uses and the internal transformation of the agency to a nimble organization ready to deliver exciting new services to our customers," said Cavan. "I know Roanie has a deep understanding of Access Copyright's potential and the leadership skills to guide the organization through a smooth transition to realize new opportunities."

The recruitment committee of the Board undertook an extensive, national search lead by Co-Chairs Nancy Gerrish and James Romanow.

"It was a field of very strong candidates," confirmed Romanow. "We congratulate Roanie. We are confident that under her leadership, Access will continue to contribute to the important work that writers and publishers do as they create, innovate, teach, inspire and engage Canadians."

Ontario Stewards Ease 2013 Blue Box Increase for Magazines

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 13:11:00 -0500

A projected 2013 Blue Box rate increase was moderated in an agreement reached among producers within Stewardship Ontario’s printed paper category. Tonnage fees were originally set to rise by 55.8% to $0.0849/kg in 2013, up from $0.0545/kg in 2012, a direct result of a new cost allocation study across all product categories. However, after considerable discussion involving Magazines Canada, the new 2013 rate for magazines has been approved at $0.0647/kg, an 18.7% increase.

Stewardship Ontario publicly agreed that the proposed 2013 magazine rate was unfair and, as a result, worked within the Steward organization to find a solution. The rate situation is made even more egregious because Canadian publishers are paying for foreign publisher recycling. Foreign magazines contribute nothing to the financial operation of the Blue Box system despite contributing an estimated 30%+ of total magazine tonnage. It is called "free riding" and it is simply wrong. In addition to the fee reduction, Stewardship Ontario will undertake more studies on long-term fee impacts and free riders for use in 2014 rate discussions. Magazines Canada is actively partnering in this effort.

Many of the above challenges are driven by Ontario's Waste Diversion Act, about which there is a broad consensus that it is broken and requires an overhaul from the ground up.

The discussions that contributed to this more constructive result were driven by Magazines Canada's Blue Box team, which includes three of the largest magazine publisher Stewards. While these results are better than originally proposed, all parties agree that much work remains to be done, especially in resolving free riding. At the same time, Magazines Canada recognizes and appreciates that other non-magazine Stewards are paying more as a result of this change. It is essential that all Stewards work together to secure a new waste and recycling act that serves achievable environmental and economic goals.

Magazines Canada will be active in the next steps, both short and long term.

Magazines Canada transmet le message au Parlement

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 10:00:00 -0500

Le média des magazines canadien a communiqué son message sur le succès et le caractère opportun de l’industrie du magazine aux députés et aux hauts fonctionnaires à l’occasion d’une série de rencontres personnelles, les 26 et 27 novembre 2012. Sous la direction de la présidente du conseil de Magazines Canada, Deborah Morrison (Canada's History) et du président du comité des relations gouvernementales, Doug Knight (Toronto Life), le groupe comprenait :

Steve Ceron (Think Green Publishing)
Alastair Cheng (Literary Review of Canada)
Gary Davies (BC Business)
Dorothy Dobbie (Manitoba Home & Gardener Living)
Michael Fox (Garden Making)
Linda Gourlay (Saltscapes)
Robert Goyette (Reader’s Digest)
Niel Hiscox (Canadian Auto Dealer)
Mark Jamison (Magazines Canada)
Todd Latham (ReNew Canada)
Julie Osborne (Maclean’s)
Jocelyn Poirier (Clin d’oeil)
Chris Purcell (Canadian Living)
Jennifer Schmidt-Rempel (Lethbridge Living)
Terry Sellwood (Cottage Life)
Jennifer Varkonyi (Maisonneuve)
Melony Ward (Azure)
Grant Young (Downhome)

Soulignant son appréciation pour le soutien du ministre du Patrimoine, James Moore, le groupe a fait le point auprès des législateurs sur l’évolution constante de notre média et sur l’augmentation potentielle de sa contribution culturelle et économique.

Nous vous invitons à lire l’article documentaire du groupe à l’adresse suivante : Politique canadienne en matière de magazines : Croissance économique et intervenants canadiens dans le secteur du magazine.

Reminder: November 24 Deadline for CPF Aid to Publishers Applications

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 14:00:00 -0400

The 2013-2014 Applicant Guide for the Aid to Publishers component for the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) is available on the Department's website at pch.gc.ca/eng/1267303755421, along with the application form. The deadline for applications is November 24.

The Aid to Publishers component is designed to provide Canadian publishers of paid or verified request circulation magazines and paid circulation non-daily newspapers with the financial assistance they need to produce and distribute high-quality Canadian content for Canadian readers. More information.

Access Copyright Grants

Fri, 05 Oct 2012 11:39:00 -0400

Applications for Access Copyright Foundation (ACF) Events Grants (up to $7,500) are now being accepted. The application deadline is November 1.

The Events Grants program promotes the development and public appreciation of Canadian publishing, literary and visual arts. Events Grants provide funding to organizations and artists groups in order to showcase publishable works to the public or to host professional development events for writers, visual artists, publishers and related arts professionals. Events must celebrate and present Canadian content in a public context, or provide opportunities for learning, career advancement or creative discourse in publishing, writing or visual arts.

The application form and program information are available on the ACF website at www.acfoundation.ca or on the Saskatchewan Arts Board’s website at http://www.artsboard.sk.ca/grants/grant-programs/2131-access-copyright-foundation-grants.

The Access Copyright Foundation grants program is administered by the Saskatchewan Arts Board in association with ACF. Each year, ACF will award grants to Canada’s writers, visual artists and publishers to support professional development opportunities, research projects and events. All three activities are vital to ensuring that Canadians will continue to create new cultural works that will be enjoyed by their fellow citizens, and those around the world.

Please contact Program Consultant Joanne Gerber at (306) 964-1163 (Saskatoon), (800) 667-7526 (Toll-free), or joanne@artsboard.sk.ca with any questions.

Guide du demandeur d'Aide aux éditeurs, 2013 -2014

Fri, 05 Oct 2012 11:28:00 -0400

Le Guide du demandeur du volet Aide aux éditeurs du Fonds du Canada pour les périodiques pour le cycle de financement 2013-2014 est maintenant accessible sur le site web du ministère à pch.gc.ca/fra/1267303755421.

Ontario Tax Credits for Your Online Publication

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 13:49:00 -0400

Ontario magazine publishing companies developing online publications may qualify for an Ontario Interactive Digital Media Tax Credit (OIDMTC). Learn more at a WebEx info session hosted by the Ontario Media Development Corporation and Magazines Canada on Wednesday, October 3, 2012 from 2 to 4 pm (EST).

MMBC Seeks Extension on Paper Stewardship Plan

Fri, 07 Sep 2012 10:38:00 -0400

Multi-Material British Columbia (MMBC), which has been working with stakeholders to develop a program plan for printed paper and packaging (PPP), is seeking an extension. A new date has yet to be set, but the MMBC announced this week that it will ask BC's Ministry of Environment to extend the original November 19 deadline, citing unforeseen challenges.

"MMBC has been actively working on program plan development and while we have already made significant investment and progress towards developing what will be Canada’s first true EPR program for PPP, we have also encountered some unexpected and significant challenges," said Allen Langdon, Vice-President, Sustainability for the Retail Council of Canada. "As a result, MMBC has submitted a formal request to the Ministry of Environment for an extension of the current November 19 deadline for plan development. While it is only the producers that are regulated, MMBC is aware that it is critical to have the participation and support of all key stakeholders, notably municipalities and the waste management industry that have long been providing BC residents with their recycling services. "

Magazines Canada will continue to monitor this situation as it develops.

OMDC Magazine Fund 2012-2013: Call for Applications

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 13:53:00 -0400

The OMDC Magazine Fund is designed to strengthen Ontario-based magazine publishers. The OMDC Magazine Fund program will provide funding of up to $75,000 to Canadian-owned and -controlled, Ontario-based magazine publishing companies to assist in the growth of these businesses through the creation and implementation of new strategic business and marketing initiatives.

NEW for 2012

1. Digital Magazine Pilot: OMDC will provide support for a limited number of digital magazines and is accepting applications from publishers of digital-only magazines. Current Applicant Eligibility requirements are applicable to both print and digital publishers; please read the Magazine Title Eligibility (page 4-5) for specific requirements for digital magazines.

2. There is an increased emphasis on innovation. The Assessment Criteria (page 10) have been adjusted to increase the weighting of projects that are innovative for the applicant company.

Applications must be submitted via the OMDC Online Application Portal (OAP). All applicants are strongly encouraged to commence their applications early should assistance be required.
Prior to commencing an application, your Company’s corporate information must be registered. If this has not already been done, you should register as soon as possible by going to apply.omdc.on.ca and clicking on "Register." If you encounter issues setting up your company’s corporate information, please email applyhelp@omdc.on.ca for assistance. This email address can also be used for any technical questions you have about the OAP.
Applicants may submit a maximum of two project applications. Applicants are required to submit two separate application forms—one for each project.

Please note that this is a competitive process with the number and amount of awards contingent on total demand for funding and the program funds available.

Timeline

The deadline for applications is Wednesday, September 12, 2012.

Guidelines and Application Process

Complete Guidelines and the link to the Online Application Portal (OAP) are posted on the OMDC website.

For further information, please send an inquiry to programs2@omdc.on.ca or contact:

Bianca Spence
Coordinator, Industry Initiatives, Industry Development
Ontario Media Development Corporation
175 Bloor Street East, South Tower, Suite 501
Toronto, ON M4W 3R8
Direct phone: 416.642.6652
Main phone: 416.314.6858
Fax: 416.314.6876
omdc.on.ca

Maureen Cavan Announces Retirement from Access Copyright

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 10:00:00 -0400

Maureen Cavan has announced her retirement as Executive Director of Access Copyright, effective December 31, 2012.

Access Copyright's release notes that over her eight-year tenure with the agency, Cavan's "diplomatic yet tenacious leadership has allowed Access Copyright to successfully face many challenges, carve out new opportunities, revamp distribution policies and build an efficient operational culture of strong customer service and a cross functional approach to problem solving. She leaves us with a strong leadership team, well prepared to support and guide a new leader."

Best wishes from Magazines Canada, Maureen!

Are Your Magazines Entering British Columbia?

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 09:38:00 -0400

New BC Recycling Regulations Impact Magazine Industry

This is a reminder that new BC Environment recycling regulations are now in place that affect all magazine publishers, distributors and wholesalers.

The recycling regulation makes producers of a product within the "Packaging and Printed Paper Product Category"—including magazines—responsible for the life-cycle management of their products through a stewardship program run by Multi-Material British Columbia (MMBC).

Canada Wide's Scott Wheatley is spearheading communication with MMBC, and both the Magazine Association of BC and Magazines Canada are engaging with BC's Ministry of Environment on the recycling regulations.

Read the recent letter from BC Environmental Standards.

For more information visit Materials Management BC (MMBC) at rcbc.bc.ca/mmbcppp

Questions? Please email Mark Jamison, Magazines Canada CEO at mjamison@magazinescanada.ca

Postal Workers' Study Questions Need for Fed's 2011 Back-to-Work Legislation

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 14:56:00 -0400

In June 2011, following eight months of collective bargaining, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) initiated rotating work stoppages, which were followed by a lockout by Canada Post Corporation. Shortly after the lockout, the Canadian Government announced that it would introduce back-to-work legislation, citing economic damage caused by the labour disruption.

A report prepared by CUPW examines the economic impact of the postal strike and lockout, and questions whether that impact warranted intervention by the federal government.

Download the full report here.

Supreme Court Copyright Decision Won't Mean "Free-For-All": Access Copyright

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 14:28:00 -0400

Access Copyright noted with interest and concern the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision announced in favour of the Council of Ministers of Education in the appeal of Access Copyright’s Elementary and Secondary Schools Tariff. According to the copyright licensing agency, this very close decision (5:4) will have a limited impact on the importance of the Access Copyright licence to the education community, according to a preliminary analysis by the copyright licensing collective.

"The fact is the Supreme Court was only looking at about seven percent of the copying done in schools,” Maureen Cavan, Executive Director, Access Copyright, said in a statement emailed to media and posted on its website. "The decision absolutely does not mean a free-for-all on copyright-protected materials used in the classroom. On the contrary, it leaves copyright licensing in the education sector alive and well," she said.

The primary, secondary and post-secondary education sector copies the equivalent of three million books a year. The question before the Supreme Court dealt with less than seven percent of copying that is done for private study and research in elementary and secondary schools, when the teacher gave instructions to read the material, leaving the vast majority of copying by K-12 schools unaffected by the decision.

In its decision the Supreme Court did not conclude that the copying at issue was "fair" under the terms of the Copyright Act. The Court said whether something is “fair” is a question of fact and a “matter of impression.” It referred the case back to the Copyright Board for re-determination in light of the Court’s decision. The Copyright Board will decide whether the ruling changes its impression that the dealing was unfair.

Access Copyright will continue to study the implications of the decision for creators and publishers and will comment further in the days and weeks ahead.

Access Copyright, the Canadian Copyright Licensing Agency, is a not‐for‐profit organization founded by Canadian creators and publishers to meet the needs of users of copyright protected works, while ensuring fair compensation for that use. Access Copyright represents nearly 11,000 Canadian writers and over 600 publishers. Access Copyright works with organizations in all sectors to help them operate legally by providing access to licences that allow for the legitimate use of published copyright protected materials.

New BC Recycling Regulations Impact Magazine Industry

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 14:19:00 -0400

There are new BC Environment recycling regulations that all magazines publishers, distributors and wholesalers must follow.

The Recycling Regulation makes producers of a product within the “Packaging and Printed Paper Product Category” — which includes magazines and newspapers — responsible for the life-cycle management of their products through a stewardship program.

The BC government wants the producers, through Materials Management BC (MMBC), to submit a stewardship program by November 19 of this year, for implementation May 19, 2014.

Scott Wheatley of Canada Wide is working on our behalf with MMBC, and both Magazine Association of BC and Magazines Canada are engaging with BC Environment.

For more information visit Materials Management BC (MMBC) at http://rcbc.bc.ca/mmbcppp

Questions? Please email Mark Jamison, Magazines Canada CEO at mjamison@magazinescanada.ca

Magazines Canada Responds to March 2012 Federal Budget

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 01:00:00 -0400

Last week’s federal budget maintains support for the Canada Periodical Fund and the Canada Council for the Arts at current levels.

The Finance Minister positioned the budget as a balance of responsible spending and expenditure reductions.

For the Department of Canadian Heritage, the budget says savings will come from plans to “streamline corporate support functions, consolidate office space and improve the efficiency of operating processes, improve processes for managing programs and operations, and prioritize grants and contributions.”

What all this means will need to be determined over the coming days. The Department’s spending reductions, coming in at 6.9% of the overall budget (including the Heritage department and all its related agencies, such as the CBC, Telefilm, etc.) is around the middle of the pack when compared to other departments, so it appears heritage and culture has not been cut more heavily than other sectors. Nevertheless, these changes will be significant and efforts to consolidate may lead to administrative delays in programs. Of these reductions, CBC appears to be impacted quite heavily with its cuts making up more than half of all cuts in the sector. The Heritage portfolio will reduce spending by $52.2 million in 2012-13, $130.7 million in 2013-14 and by $191.1million in 2014-15 (this includes savings at CBC, Telefilm, Library and Archives, etc.)

The budget is silent on the status of the Digital Economy Strategy—an area of great importance to Canada’s magazine media. At the same time, investment in research and development is a main theme of the budget. The government makes commitments to “double investments through the Industrial Research Assistance Program; provide new support for partnerships between businesses and universities; make new investments in advanced research infrastructure on our college and university campuses and streamline and improve the tax incentive program for business innovation.” The extent to which these initiatives can facilitate magazine media’s ability to develop innovative digital applications and cultivate an online presence remains to be seen.

Magazines Canada has issued a statement supporting the government’s decision to maintain funding for the Canada Periodical Fund and the Canada Council for the Arts. These are the principal programs delivering funds for our industry and we agree with the Minister’s decision to maintain program funding as a priority. In the coming days, Magazines Canada will be communicating with the Minister’s office and the department to obtain a better understanding of changes that will come as a result of the department’s spending reduction plans and work with the department on delivery expectations.

Government of Canada Reaffirms Investment in the Canada Periodical Fund and Canada Council for the Arts

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:25:00 -0400

Magazines Canada congratulates the Government of Canada for reaffirming its investment in the Canada Periodical Fund and the Canada Council for the Arts.

"We are pleased that Finance Minister Flaherty and Minister Moore have continued their commitment to the newly designed Canada Periodical Fund as an important driver of economic activity and the creation and circulation of Canadian content across multiple platforms," said Mark Jamison, CEO of Magazines Canada.

"Further, we congratulate the Government on its decision to sustain support for the Canada Council for the Arts—our most important agency of support and guidance to the broadest community of arts and cultural activity in Canada, including our arts and literary magazine creators."

For more information:

Mark Jamison
CEO, Magazines Canada
mjamison@magazinescanada.ca

Coalition for Cultural Diversity Comments on Trans-Pacific Free Trade Negotiations

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 11:05:00 -0500

The Coalition for Cultural Diversity, a Canadian organization representing 34 member associations, including Magazines Canada, is participating in a public consultation on potential Free Trade negotiations with Trans-Pacific Partnership members.

Canada has shown leadership in the past by being the first country in the world to ratify the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.

According to a recent letter it released about the consultation, the CCD “continues to monitor very closely such trade negotiations to ensure they do not undermine the UNESCO Convention and the sovereign right of countries to adopt measures to protect and promote their diverse cultural expressions.”

The letter goes on to state, “Quite clearly, Canada will have to determine whether it is prepared to hold its ground and to seek a comprehensive exemption for culture as it has successfully done in all its bilateral trade agreements in the last 20 years, consistent with the exemption clause first included in the North

American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).”

Read the full CCD letter about the public consultation process.
Read the Government of Canada background information on the TPP negotiations.

Creating Growth and Jobs in Canada’s Cultural Industries

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 13:34:00 -0500

Under Heritage Minister James Moore’s leadership, the federal government has modernized and updated programs across the cultural sectors and secured long-term, stable funding so that cultural industries can innovate and invest with greater certainty. Over the past two years, the Minister announced five-year funding and updating of a suite of programs to support museums, arts and cultural organizations. In the 2011 federal budget, permanent funding was announced for the Canada Media Fund and for the program that promotes innovation and growth in Canada’s magazine sector, the Canada Magazine Fund.

For the cultural industries, like any sector, business planning is critical. By providing clear, modern program objectives and consistent funding, the Minister has created an environment for growth and innovation. It is up to each cultural community to make the best of it and to be prepared to be measured on their success.

The most oft-quoted “ask” of the cultural industries is that government stop offering up short-term, unpredictable project funding based on subjective criteria and instead deliver predictable support, based on clear, objective criteria. Mr. Moore has delivered.

The Canada Periodical Fund is an example. It replaces two previous programs that had similar but different eligibility and funding criteria and separate deadlines, and that each required administration by a team of officials. The program actually deterred innovation in new digital services by requiring magazines to use postal distribution. The new program will help the industry move forward, allowing publishers to use the investment in a manner appropriate to the unique needs of their magazine. And the key measure for the program is consumer acceptance. Levels of support are based on whether or not Canadian consumers want and read the magazine.

Some of Canada’s most popular magazines are published by large companies. The Canada Periodical Fund caps the level of support that goes to large circulation magazines and the levels of support are not based on ownership but on consumer choice. Criticizing our leading companies and governments for utilizing taxpayer dollars to achieve policy goals is a well- travelled road in this country, and it’s unfortunate. Some U.S. publishing companies are larger than Canada’s entire magazine publishing sector and U.S. magazines dominate newsstands across Canada. This does not just affect the availability of Canadian content. It affects Canadian commerce. Canadian businesses, in every sector, advertise their products and services in Canadian trade and consumer magazines. When consumers choose a foreign magazine and make purchasing decisions, they may end up bypassing Canadian suppliers for foreign ones.

Canada’s cultural industries, including its magazines, are a job creation and economic growth engine. Some 630,000 people work in our cultural sector, representing $46 billion to the Canadian economy. When it comes to stimulating employment and economic growth, looking to the cultural sector is good public policy. Discriminating against those magazines that deliver on Canada’s cultural policy goals is not.

Canada’s magazine industry leads the cultural media in providing Canadian content and perspectives to Canadian consumers. When it comes to magazines, Canadian consumers are more likely to seek out Canadian titles and content than they will with other traditional media platforms. Where screen time and box office receipts of Canadian films, relative to foreign films, are in the 3-5% range, Canadian magazines make up around 40% of Canadian consumer magazine purchasing, providing an average of 80% Canadian content. This is achieved with a modest commitment. Annual public investment in Canadian magazine publishing by all levels of government accounts for less than 4% of the industry’s annual revenues.

Canada’s cultural policies are designed to ensure Canadians have access to Canadian content and that the economic and job creation benefits of our creative industries are fully realized. This high level of consumption of Canadian magazines results from both the ingenuity of the sector as well as well-crafted, effective federal public policy.

Rather than criticize the modest investments made to support this tremendous success, we should be looking to position the industry to best take advantage of the opportunities of the vastly expanding world of digital media and firmly establish Canada’s presence in it. Will Canadians have the creative jobs in both content development and delivery platforms in this global business or will they go to others? Can Canada replicate the success it has had with homegrown magazines in the digital universe or will online content all come from beyond our borders?

We have an opportunity to build jobs and economic growth by investing in content for the digital world. We should move on it so we are not, once again, trying to restore Canadian perspectives and Canadian jobs but are building them from the get-go.

Deborah Morrison
Chair, Magazines Canada

U of T and Western Sign Agreement with Access Copyright

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:00:00 -0500

From the Access Copyright media release:

The University of Toronto and Western University today announced that they have each reached an agreement with Access Copyright to allow their communities to reproduce copyright-protected materials in both print and digital formats.

"We believe that this agreement is fair for all the parties—those who create the materials, as well as students who gain access to copyright materials through the University," said Cheryl Misak, University of Toronto Provost.
"This enables, within certain limits, reproduction of copyright material for students’ use without concern for infringing on copyright restrictions."

"This agreement gives us a convenient, comprehensive way to share content digitally and in paper form from a repertoire of millions of publications," said Janice Deakin, Provost and Vice-President (Academic) at Western. "The backdating of the agreement gives us peace of mind by covering past digital uses that may have exposed the university and the indemnity provision increases the university's legal protection against copyright infringement."

Western and UofT will each pay Access Copyright a royalty of $27.50 per full-time equivalent student annually. This royalty includes what used to be a separate 10 cents per page royalty for coursepack copying, so there will no longer be a separate royalty for such copying. The new royalty is substantially below the amount initially sought by Access Copyright in its Tariff application before the Copyright Board.

This agreement will be in place until December 2013 and will renew automatically for one year terms during which any party can cancel or renegotiate the agreement based on six months notice.

"We welcome this opportunity to work in partnership with Western and UofT," said Maureen Cavan, Executive Director of Access Copyright. "The education and publishing industries depend on one another. An agreement that provides for usage of content, fair compensation to those that provide the content, with rules that favour sustainability, is in the interest of all players," said Cavan.

Over the course of the next year, a method will be jointly developed to assess the actual volume of copying of copyright protected materials which will assist in determining the appropriateness of the royalty structure in subsequent years.

Contact for the University of Toronto:

Michael Kurts
Assistant Vice-President
Strategic Communications and Marketing
University Relations
416.978.5947

Contact for Western:

Keith Marnoch
Director of Media and Community Relations
Western University
519.661.2111 x85468

Contacts for Access Copyright:

Maureen Cavan
Executive Director
Access Copyright
416.868.1620 x226

Roanie Levy
General Counsel, Director Policy and External Affairs
Access Copyright
416.868.1620 x233

Ceci est un rappel pour les périodiques numériques, ne ratez pas la date d’échéance du 23 janvier 2012

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 10:39:00 -0500

Le Fonds du Canada pour les périodiques vient de lancer son Guide du demandeur 2012-2013 pour l'Innovation commerciale. Ce volet offre du financement aux petites et moyennes maisons d'édition de magazines imprimés et périodiques numériques admissibles. Il encourage l'adaptation aux fluctuations du marché grâce à l'innovation et contribue à la diversité du contenu recherché par les lecteurs canadiens.

Échéancier :
Êtes-vous une publication qui publie uniquement une version numérique ? Si oui, nous vous encourageons à soumettre votre demande dès que possible au sous-volet Innovation commerciale pour les périodiques numériques. Les demandes complètes doivent être oblitérées au plus tard le 23 janvier 2012.

Pour plus de détails concernant les critères d'admissibilité des maisons d'édition, des périodiques et des projets; les exigences relatives au processus de demande ou d'évaluation ainsi que les formulaires de demande, veuillez consulter le site Web de Patrimoine canadien (PCH) en suivant ce lien : pch.gc.ca/fra/1267313838781

Pour toute question, n'hésitez pas à communiquer avec le programme :

Téléphone : 1.800.641.9221 (numéro sans frais au Canada) ou 819.997.5539;
Courriel : fcp-cpf@patrimoinecanadien.gc.ca

CPF Launches Business Innovation 2012-2013 Applicant's Guide

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 11:05:00 -0500

The Canada Periodical Fund has launched its Business Innovation 2012-2013 Applicant's guide. This component offers project funding to eligible small and mid-sized print magazine and digital periodical publishing firms. It encourages innovation to adapt to changing market conditions and contributes to the diversity of content sought by Canadian readers.

For details concerning applicant, periodical and project eligibility criteria, application requirements, assessment process and application forms, please consult the Canadian Heritage (PCH) website by following this link: pch.gc.ca/eng/1268240166828/1268328701928

Deadlines:
It is recommended to submit your application at least four months prior to the project start date.

For the Business Innovation for Print Periodicals sub-component, applications are accepted throughout the year.
For the Business Innovation for Digital Periodicals sub-component, applications must be received by January 23, 2012.

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the program:
Telephone: 1.800.641.9221 (toll free in Canada) or 819.997.5539
Email: fcp-cpf@canadianheritage.gc.ca

La date limite de demande de financement d’aide aux éditeurs est le 12 décembre

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 15:15:00 -0500

La date limite pour déposer une demande de financement d’aide aux éditeurs 2012-2013 par l’intermédiaire du Fonds du Canada pour les périodiques approche. Le lundi 12 décembre est la dernière journée où les demandes seront acceptées. Assurez-vous donc de déposer votre demande à temps.

Le financement d’aide aux éditeurs offre aux magazines à diffusion payée ou à diffusion sur demande vérifiée ainsi qu’aux éditeurs canadiens de journaux non quotidiens à diffusion payée le soutien financier dont ils ont besoin pour produire et distribuer du contenu canadien de qualité à l’intention des lecteurs canadiens.

Le guide et le formulaire de demande de 2012-13 sont offerts sur le site Web du ministère du Patrimoine Canada.

Pour plus d’information sur le programme, y compris les critères d’admissibilité, nous vous invitons à consulter :

Davidson New DM of Ontario Culture

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 14:11:00 -0500

Steven Davidson is now the Deputy Minister of Ontario Tourism and Culture, a role in which he has been acting since September 2010. He was formerly the Assistant Deputy Minister of the Culture Division at the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, and Assistant Deputy Minister of the Policy, Programs and Services Division at the former Ministry of Culture. Davidson has a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from Queen's University and a Masters of archival studies from the University of British Columbia. Magazines Ontario is looking forward to working with Mr. Davidson in this role in a Ministry responsible for arts, cultural and creative industries policy in Ontario. Agencies under his command include the Ontario Arts Council and the Ontario Media Development Corporation.

Canada’s Magazine Policy is Working

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 09:38:00 -0500

Canada's magazine policy is aimed at ensuring that Canadians have access to a diverse range of Canadian-content magazines. And it's working.

Canada Periodical Fund

The Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) provides support to Canadian paid and request circulation magazines that have over 80% Canadian-authored content. The CPF is supporting jobs and growth in Canada’s magazine sector:

The number of Canadian consumer magazine titles has increased from 908 in 1999 to 1,276 in 2009
The number of b2b titles is now at 777, up from 751 in 2000
Circulation of U.S. magazines in Canada is declining, meaning that Canadians are choosing to read Canadian-published titles
Over 90% of magazines distributed in Canada are Canadian-owned, Canadian-content magazines
Canadian magazines, with support from the Canada Periodical Fund, have weathered a significant downturn in the advertising services market and continue to invest in “smart” jobs, retraining and technology for future growth

Magazines Canada supports the Government of Canada’s commitment to the stable, long-term funding of the Canada Periodical Fund.

Facilitating Canadian Content Online

Consumers are increasingly seeking access to Canadian content online in a variety of formats and distribution channels. Canada's magazine media is extending well known and trusted brands from print magazines to digital platforms.

Creating new online distribution channels requires high-risk, front-load investment in jobs, technology and retraining.

Magazines Canada recommends a new initiative to support investments in creating original, online content and distribution platforms which offer Canadians increased access to Canadian content online and additional jobs and growth in Canada's magazine media.

Canadian Magazines

The $2.2 billion Canadian magazine industry provides direct and indirect employment to15,000 people, which includes the highly skilled, creative people who write, design, illustrate and photograph on all platforms, including the web, print and digital.
Canada’s magazine media is already a leader in Canada’s digital economy. The industry has invested heavily in this area and magazines are multi-platform content providers, not just print publishers.
There are 2,053 Canadian magazine titles, produced in every region and reaching Canadians in every corner of the country.
Annually, the industry produces 700 million print copies; millions of readers, from Canada and beyond, are attracted to online and digital magazines.
Most Canadian-owned and -controlled magazines offer more than 80% Canadian content.
Over 90% of magazines distributed in Canada are Canadian-owned, Canadian-content titles.
Magazines drive business to business activity on both a national and regional basis with more than 86% of business decision makers surveyed saying that Canadian business magazines are very important to doing business in this country
Annual public investment in Canadian magazine publishing by all levels of government accounts for less than 4% of the industry’s annual revenues; although modest , the investment is essential to the breadth and depth of the industry in all regions across the country.

Magazines Canada in CPC Business Reply Card Review

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 09:24:00 -0500

Magazines Canada is involved in a multi-party technical consultation with Canada Post to try to resolve concerns about new specifications for business reply cards. Canada Post announced the new specification in July 2011 to increase the thickness of paper used for business reply cards. So far, we have gotten the effective date pushed back to July 2012.

In mid-November, Canada Post convened a Technical Committee meeting that brought together more than 20 experts from paper manufacturers, card printers, magazine printers, magazine mailers, marketers, production managers, postal equipment engineers and process engineers. The problem is that new automation equipment used by the CPC is being jammed by reply cards, and reply cards are being mangled and possibly destroyed by the equipment. The initial solution from CPC engineers was to require thicker paper in order to solve the jamming problem. However, this would increase the costs of producing cards by 30% to 40% for many publishers, while most magazines get less than 1% response from this medium. There are a range of possible options being explored and a process is underway to try to resolve this issue by April 2012. More to come as the situation progresses.

Les éditeurs du Québec et Magazines Canada en consultation au sujet de l’augmentation des coûts de recyclage

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:58:00 -0400

À cause d’un changement de la législation provinciale, les éditeurs de magazines du Québec prévoient payer beaucoup plus cher que dans le passé pour les programmes provinciaux de recyclage.

Dans le cadre de rencontres de consultation avec Éco Entreprises Québec (ÉEQ), Magazines Canada a appris que les magazines, qui étaient appartenaient auparavant à la catégorie « documents écrits » (et n’étaient donc pas assujettis à des coûts de recyclage) ont été reclassés dans la catégorie « documents imprimés », une classification générale qui est assujettie à un prix pour le recyclage. Ce prix a augmenté de 50 % à cause de l’inclusion des magazines, le gouvernement du Québec ayant augmenté la proportion de recyclage attribuable aux documents imprimés de 10 % et déclarant que les magazines représentent un dixième de toutes les matières recyclées au Québec. (Source : « Explication des écarts », page 3)

Pour plus d’information contextuelle, nous vous invitons à passer en revue les documents suivants, fournis par ÉEQ :

Explication des divers taux appliqués aux catégories de matières imprimées – une brève explication des différences affectant les taux de contribution prévus des journaux comparativement aux autres matières imprimées.
Explication des écarts entre les frais de 2009 et de 2010 – explique les changements associés à l’adoption du projet de loi 88 par le Québec, y compris le reclassement des magazines de la catégorie « documents écrits » à la catégorie « documents imprimés » (page 3).
Barème préliminaire des contributions pour 2010, 2011 et 2012– définit les différentes classes de matières recyclables et les contributions prévues pour chaque catégorie, d’une année à l’autre.

CPF Aid to Publishers Deadline Approaching; Future Rule Change

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 10:56:00 -0400

The deadline to apply for the 2011-2012 Canada Periodical Fund Aid to Publishers program is just over a month away. Applications must be in by December 12,2011.

In addition, Heritage Canada has announced a change that will take effect next year, for the 2012-2013 grant. The CPF will alter its definition of a "listing," which could affect some titles' eligibility for the grant.

Currently, "a listing that contains opinions and analysis is not considered a listing by the Canada Periodical Fund." The definition will be expanded next year to include listings that do contain analysis. Since the Aid to Publishers and Business Innovation grants exclude periodicals whose editorial content is more than 50% listings, the new definition could mean some currently eligible magazines may exceed the 50% threshold in 2012-2013.

Read the official announcement here.

Apply Now for 2012-13 Aid to Publishers Funding

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 14:07:00 -0400

Applications are now open for 2012-13 Aid to Publishers funding through the Canadian Periodical Fund (CPF). The deadline to apply is December 12, 2011.

The 2012-13 applicant's guide and form are available on the Department of Canadian Heritage website.

Aid to Publishers funding provides Canadian publishers of paid or verified request circulation magazines and paid circulation non-daily newspapers with financial assistance to produce and distribute high-quality Canadian content for Canadian readers.

For more detailed program information including eligibility criteria, please see:

Reminder: CPF Business Innovation Deadline

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 16:22:00 -0400

CANADIAN HERITAGE - CANADA PERIODICAL FUND
Business Innovation

Reminder for print magazines: time is running out to apply for funding in 2011-2012.

The Business Innovation for print magazines sub-component of the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) is still accepting applications for the 2011-2012 government fiscal year (April 2011 to March 2012). You must submit your application prior to your project start date.

The Business Innovation for print magazines sub-component offers financial support to print magazines of eligible small and mid-sized publishing firms for innovative projects meeting the CPF’s and Business Innovation objectives. Examples of funded projects include developing a digital version of a magazine, creating mobile applications or improving a website's interactivity. Projects with a maximum duration of 12 months are favoured but may extend beyond April 1, 2012.

For details concerning the eligibility criteria for publishing firms, periodicals and projects; application requirements and application forms, please refer to the Canadian Heritage Web site by following this link.

Reminder: publishers can apply to and receive funding from the Aid to Publishers and the Business Innovation components during the same government fiscal year.

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the program:

Telephone: 1.800.641.9221 (toll free in Canada) or 819.997.5539
Email: fcp-cpf@canadianheritage.gc.ca

High Stakes in Campus Copyright Wars

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 15:20:00 -0400

A note from Maureen Cavan, Executive Director of Access Copyright:

Campuses across Canada, including University of Windsor, are caught up in a frustrating copyright dispute with the organization I manage – a not-for-profit run jointly by creators and publishers. The quarrel is causing needless anxiety for faculty, and threatens the quality of educational resources available to students.

Over this past summer, about 25 post-secondary administrations took the unfortunate step of walking away from the licences that worked so well for decades. In place of clear procedures for worry-free copying, students and faculty now face a jungle of prohibitions and guidelines that leaves them scratching their heads, unsure if the copying they need to do will expose them to legal liability for infringement.

Three unfounded objections appear to have driven post-secondary administrators to act as they have. The first, and most dubious, is that their institutions no longer need access to the millions of published titles in the Access Copyright repertoire.

This is really surprising. In 2010, over 100 million pages from close to 120,000 unique titles were copied into paper coursepacks alone. This number does not include many more millions of copies made and distributed through other means, including digital. Where has all this copying gone? Did it suddenly disappear?

University administrators have told faculty to clear the rights to content themselves on a case-by-case basis, or else restrict usage to digital content already under licence in their libraries. That might sound reasonable, but universities have no way of knowing if it will work. More likely, content will continue to be copied whether authorized or not. Some administrators have warned faculty that they will be the ones to face legal liability if caught using materials that have not been cleared.

The second objection is that reporting what is copied intrudes on academic freedom. Reporting is not new. It is the means by which Access Copyright ensures that the right creators and publishers are compensated for what is used. One wonders if academic freedom is really a red herring to get faculty on side.

It’s unfortunate that professors have been dragged into this. Not only are their employers saddling them with the responsibility to clear rights that administrators once managed on their behalf, they are making them carry the risk of getting it wrong.

Finally, the universities that opted out of the Access Copyright licence object that it has become too costly. This too is misleading. Previously, students had to pay anything from $3.38 to over $200 per year in royalties. This included a flat fee plus $0.10 cents per page when protected works were included in coursepacks. We have offered instead to blend the flat fee and the per page fee into one. The proposed tariff also includes digital scanning and posting, a growing practice not currently paid for.

While we suggested an upper limit of $45 per student, the actual rate will be decided by the Copyright Board, an independent arbitrator that will make its own value assessment based on facts presented by us and the educational institutions themselves.

At institutions that have walked-away, infringement on a mass scale now seems inevitable. People will simply go on using what they need. The pay-per-use option advocated by some as fairer is simply not practical, given the enormity of copying and titles involved.

A disorderly marketplace for the works of leading researchers, writers and thinkers is in nobody’s interest. A mutually supportive partnership between creators and publishers and Canada’s institutions of higher learning is. My door is open: let’s talk.

Magazines Canada Comments on the Canada Periodical Fund

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 12:04:00 -0400

Magazines Canada congratulates Heritage Minister, the Honourable James Moore, on taking the final step in updating and modernizing a Government of Canada program that will serve Canada’s magazines in their efforts to contribute to economic growth and the creation of Canadian content.

Magazines Canada’s comments come as the results of the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF)’s new formula of support are being communicated to Canadian magazine publishers this week.

“We are pleased that the Canada Periodical Fund has been updated,” said Magazines Canada CEO Mark Jamison. “Together with the announcement of permanent funding delivered in the budget earlier this year, the Government of Canada is taking action to establish a stable and predictable program that will assist with business planning and the creation of new content. We estimate that the program will assist magazines in delivering 1.6 billion reading occasions annually.”

Canada’s magazine sector continues to deliver value to Canadians, despite challenging economic conditions coupled with the recent strike and lock-out activity at Canada Post that created significant disruption for Canada’s magazine sector. Delays in the CPF this year have created uncertainty in the sector and complicated investment decisions for publishers. However, the industry recognizes that these delays are unique to this year. In future years, publishers and federal officials should work to ensure program investments at the beginning of the fiscal year in April. The revamped CPF will be helpful in providing greater predictability in a sometimes unsettled environment.

The new CPF formula, now based on eligible annual circulation, creates some substantial changes to levels of support for some magazines, compared to past years’ funding—a significant challenge for many titles to manage. However, these changes will not be implemented all at once.

“We welcome the government’s decision to provide for a three year transition period,” said Jamison, “to allow magazines time to plan as they adjust to the new formula."

Magazines Canada will undertake a detailed analysis of the new formula and its impact on the sector.

“We hope that the new formula will contribute to the growth of the sector and be adjusted as conditions require in coming years,” said Jamison.

The Canada Periodical Fund was announced by Minister Moore in February 2009, after a review of existing programs. In the 2011 federal budget, the Government of Canada committed to providing long-term, stable funding to the program. The program receives $75 million annually through the Department of Canadian Heritage and supports the creation and distribution of about 900 Canadian magazines and non-daily newspapers.

Members Respond to Magazines Canada Press Release on Canada Post Legislation

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 14:55:00 -0400

On June 20, Magazines Canada issued a press release welcoming the introduction of legislation to resume postal service in Canada. Previously, the association had been in active communication with federal officials as well as both the CPC and CUPW advocating for a solution to the work stoppage, for which there was overwhelming support from members.

However, some of our members issued their own responses to Magazines Canada's statements, which you can read here:

Magazines Canada thanks these members for their active engagement on this issue. The association's goal is to advocate for the Canadian magazine industry on behalf of its nearly 400 member magazines. While it is not always possible to achieve a unanimous consensus on controversial topics, we welcome the opinions of all of our members.

CPC Responds to Magazines Canada Letter

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 11:30:00 -0400

Last week, Magazines Canada sent a letter to to Deepak Chopra, President of Canada Post and Denis Lemelin, National President of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers, encouraging both groups to think about their customers and resolve the current Canada Post strike and lockout.

The next day, Mr. Chopra responded on behalf of CPC. Read his letter here.

Canada Periodical Fund Update

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 10:18:00 -0400

CPF Aid to Publishers Program to be Delayed in 2011

If you are eligible for the Aid to Publishers component of the Canada Periodical Fund, you should be aware that support to publishers will be delayed in 2011—and the delay could be quite substantial.

In the 2010 "transition year" (the first year of the CPF), publishers were notified of the amount they would receive and cheques started to be delivered starting in mid-June. In 2011, cheques are not likely to be mailed to publishers before August or September and the first payment publishers receive will be for only 75% - 80% of their final allocation. There are several reasons for this delay:

This is the first year in which all magazines were required to fill out full applications. Each had to be assessed by the Department: extensive and time-consuming work.
The budget for the CPF was only finalized in March of 2011, when the federal budget was tabled.
The budget was further delayed by the federal election.

As a result, Department of Canadian Heritage officials have only recently been able to move the payment process forward. It is now expected that publishers will receive payment later in the summer—probably in August.

Two Payments in 2011-2012

Also, as a result of these factors the Aid to Publishers payment will be broken into two parts. While the full budget of $75 million has been allocated to the program, $15 million of that funding was announced in the recent budget and further steps have to be taken to secure Parliamentary approval before it can be distributed. In the interest of expediting payment to publishers, officials will proceed with payment of the first 75% to 80% of the program this summer, and follow up with a second payment for the remainder, likely in January 2012.

If you have any questions about the CPF Aid to Publishers schedule for this year, please contact Magazines Canada or program officials at the Department of Canadian Heritage.

Magazines Canada Letter to CPC and CUPW

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 12:59:00 -0400

Magazines Canada today sent a letter to Deepak Chopra, President of Canada Post and Denis Lemelin, National President of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers, encouraging both groups to think about their customers and resolve the current Canada Post strike and lockout.

UPDATE: Mr. Chopra responded to Magazines Canada in this letter.

Magazines Canada Commentary on Postal Talks

Thu, 19 May 2011 09:03:00 -0400

Magazines Canada is communicating directly with Federal officials to express concern about the prospects of a postal interruption, and is encouraging the Government of Canada to assist the parties to find solutions in the context of the fragile economic environment Canada is grappling with.

Le Fond du Canada pour les périodiques vient de lancer son guide du demandeur pour l'Innovation commerciale pour 2011-2012

Thu, 12 May 2011 11:43:00 -0400

Le Fond du Canada pour les périodiques vient de lancer son guide du demandeur pour l'Innovation commerciale pour 2011–2012. Ce volet offre du financement ouvert aux petites et moyennes maisons d'édition de magazines imprimés et périodiques numériques admissibles. Il encourage l'adaptation aux fluctuations du marché grâce à l'innovation et contribue à la diversité du contenu recherché par les lecteurs canadiens.

Pour plus de détails concernant les critères d'admissibilité des maisons d'édition, des périodiques et des projets; les exigences relatives au processus de demande ou d'évaluation ainsi que les formulaires de demande, veuillez consulter le site Web de Patrimoine canadien (PCH) en suivant ce lien:
http://www.pch.gc.ca/fra/1268240166828/1268328701928

Échéanciers:
Toute demande doit être reçue avant la date de début du projet. Nous vous encourageons à soumettre votre demande dès que possible, préférablement quatre mois avant le début du projet.

Pour le sous-volet Innovation commerciale pour les périodiques imprimés, les demandes sont acceptées tout au long de l’année.
Pour le sous-volet Innovation commerciale pour les périodiques numériques, les demandes doivent être reçues d’ici le 4 juillet 2011.

Pour toute question, n'hésitez pas à communiquer avec le programme:
Téléphone : 1.800.641.9221 (numéro sans frais au Canada) ou 819.997.5539;
Courriel : fcp-cpf@patrimoinecanadien.gc.ca

Panellists Announced for Magazines Canada's Public Policy Session

Thu, 05 May 2011 14:05:00 -0400

Public Policy: Canadian Magazines and the Digital Economy Strategy

Panellists have been announced for Magazines Canada's FREE Public Policy session on Canadian magazines and the Digital Economy Strategy, happening Thursday, June 9 at MagNet 2011.

Ramzi Saad, Director, Periodical Publishing and Programs at the Department of Canadian Heritage will give an update on Canadian Heritage and Magazine Policy and Programs as the new government settles into Ottawa. Ramzi will address the strategic direction of the department and relay updates to the Canada Periodical Fund, including any new developments on the $15 million commitment and the 2011-2012 payment schedule, the department’s view of Canada’s Digital Economy and what cultural industries and government need to do to prepare for it.

Jim Everson, Magazines Canada’s Executive Director, Public Affairs, will provide an overview of the federal digital economy strategy to date, along with a summary of the consultation process, Magazines Canada’s views on this and what the federal government has announced so far on the Digital Economy.

Niel Hiscox, President, Universus Group, will address the migration of print to digital from a business publisher’s perspective. Niel will examine the challenges and opportunities of the digital universe for B2B mags, and offer his perspective on what role the government could play in the Digital Economy.

Nancy Payne, Editor of Kayak: Canada’s History for Children, will provide her perspective as a mid-sized consumer publisher on the impacts of digital in her operation and what she thinks the future holds.

The format of the session will also include Q&A from the audience, moderated by Jim Everson.

This is a free session, but registration is required. For more information and to register, please visit magnet.magazinescanada.ca

And for up-to-the-minute updates on the conference, follow Magazines Canada on Twitter (@magscanada). Tweeting about MagNet? Use hashtag #MagNet11.

Plans for the Canada Periodical Fund 2011-2012

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 10:05:00 -0400

The Issue:

The defeat of the Harper government and the federal election will have an impact of the operation of the Canada Periodical Fund this year. Publishers that have applied to the Aid to Publishers component need to be aware of possible changes to the operations of the program.

The Federal Budget/The Federal Election

The March 22^nd federal budget confirmed the $15 million required to fully fund the CPF at its $75 million budget level. The budget said that the CPF would have a permanent $75 million budget.
BUT, the government fell before the budget was passed by Parliament. Because of this, the CPF budget will only be $60 million on April 1^st when the government’s new fiscal year begins.
The road ahead is not clear but there is a very good chance that, when payments to publishers are made in June or July of 2011, they will be based on a budget of $60 million, 20% less than the $75 million the program dispensed last year at this time.
Whether or not the remaining $15 million is approved and the timing of its potential distribution to publishers depends on a series of variables.

Two Payment scenario

The Department of Canadian Heritage (DCH) will proceed with payments to publishers using the $60 million core budget available. This payment will be distributed to publishers in June or July (as it was last year) but will be less than the amount received last year. If and when the additional $15 million is approved, a second payment will be made.
Before the second payment is made, Parliament has to approve the budget. This takes time. Parliament has to be recalled, a Cabinet sworn in and a budget presented and passed. If there is a minority government, there is a chance that the new government will not want to recall Parliament until the fall. A second payment could come in early to late fall.
While nothing is certain, this scenario may be the most likely. The current government has committed to the CPF. Magazines Canada would expect this commitment to be honoured by any party that forms the government after the election.

$60 Million Scenario

There is a possibility that the $15 million will never be approved. While we would expect and advocate for the budget commitment to be honoured, nothing is guaranteed.
Under this scenario, DCH will distribute the $60 million but not the second $15 million payment.

Next Steps

Magazines Canada will continue to advocate for a full $75 million budget for the CPF with all political parties. During the election, MC staff will be in touch with policy staff from the political parties to advocate for their support.

Government of Canada Confirms Support of Canada Periodical Fund

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 16:22:00 -0400

The Canadian magazine industry is delighted with the Federal budget commitment to the Canada Periodical Fund. This commitment confirms that $15 million annually is being added to the Canada Periodical Fund budget. The budget papers say the investment will be "$15 million in ongoing funding to the program to continue to support the distribution of publications to Canadians, while providing long-term stable program funding."

"This means that the CPF will remain strong and intact," said Mark Jamison, CEO of Magazines Canada.

"By adding the $15 million as ongoing funding to the base fund, the Government of Canada has clearly stated its support for the creation and delivery of Canadian content for Canadians. We look forward to moving ahead with this important commitment."

Canada Periodical Fund: 2011- 2012 Program Timelines

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 10:25:00 -0500

If you filled out an application for the 2011-2012 Aid to Publishers component of the CPF and submitted it before the November 24, 2010 deadline, you are probably wondering when you will hear back from the Department of Canadian Heritage.

Departmental officials indicate that timelines will be much the same as last year. Magazines will be advised “over the summer” of whether or not their applications has been approved and the amount of investment their magazine will receive. Last year, in mid-June, magazines were advised by letter of the status of their application and, where approved, received payment very shortly thereafter. We anticipate that the timelines will be relatively similar this year.

The overall budget for the Canada Periodical Fund is still in question and is likely only to be known when the federal budget is delivered later in March. The CPF has had an annual budget of $75 million in previous years. However, $15 million of that amount need to be re-confirmed in the upcoming budget. Magazines Canada has been very active in advocating for the continuation of this investment.

OMDC Launches Awareness-Building Campaign

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 09:40:00 -0500

On February 23, the Ontario Media Development Corporation (OMDC) launched a new awareness-building campaign, We've Got it Going ON. The goal of the campaign is to build awareness among business leaders and influencers of Ontario's current strengths, future potential and global stature in digital media technologies and content development. The campaign targets two large and diverse segments:

Consumers: Ontarians who use/consume creative media products and key influencers who can affect policy decisions; and
Businesses: who might use the services of, partner with, or invest in, Ontario’s creative media companies.

The objective is to "wow" the audience—to inform, educate and impress all target audiences about the depth of talent, expertise, leading-edge capabilities and scale of Ontario’s creative content business sector, about the significant and increasing economic impact of our sectors, and to encourage audiences to "be part of it."

The campaign is designed to showcase world-renowned products made by Ontario companies using leading-edge technologies and effects. It includes a 30 second television spot that will be airing on a range of stations and programs (news, top ten and Canadian) over the next five weeks. These ads are supported by a 60 second spot which will be available online (OMDC website, YouTube, Facebook), print ads in consumer, business and trade publications, and wide range of placements online. More than 100 Ontario companies provided their content for use in the campaign—including Magazines Canada members Azure, Cottage Life, SkyNews, Spacing, THIS, Toronto Life, The Walrus and Verge.

Visit the OMDC website to see the spot, follow the OMDC on Twitter, link to the campaign on your own website, and do what you can to help spread the news about Ontario’s fabulous companies at home and around the world!

Please also note that the campaign includes a facelift and new "consumer" component on the OMDC's website. You need only click on the lower right hand "business" button to get to the regular B2B content that you are familiar with on the OMDC site.

Thank you Scott Shortliffe

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 15:10:00 -0500

Scott Shortliffe has accepted the position of Deputy Director General, Broadcasting and Digital Communication at Canadian Heritage effective March 21. Scott has been the Director of Periodical Publishing Policy and Programs since June 2006. He joined Canadian Heritage in 1994 and has had positions in the Canadian Audio-Visual Certification Office (CAVCO), the Canadian Studies and Youth program, and Periodical Publishing Policy and Programs.

“Scott has been an outstanding advocate within Heritage for Canadian magazines, demonstrating a candid and collaborative style that was a good fit for and earned him the respect of the magazine industry. He will be greatly missed. We wish him well," said Mark Jamison, Magazines Canada’s CEO

At the same time we welcome Ramzi Saad who has accepted the position of Director, Periodical Publishing Policy and Programs effective March 28. Since September 2008, he has been heading the Strategic Policy and Management team. Prior to that, he was the Director of the Francophone Secretariat. Ramzi has had positions with the 2010 Olympic and Paralympics Winter Games Federal Secretariat, with Trade and Investment Branch and other government departments, including Health Canada. Magazines Canada is looking forward to working with Mr. Saad and is seeking a meeting as soon as his schedule permits.

Magazines Ontario Welcomes the Government of Ontario’s Investment in Creative Media

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 14:48:00 -0500

Magazines Ontario welcomes the Government of Ontario’s investments in the $2.9 million Entertainment and Creative Cluster Partnerships Fund, investments designed to help strengthen the province's economy.

Magazines Ontario is the recipient of support for its 2011–12 project Digital Discovery: The Next Generation (TNG). Nineteen projects in all received funding, ranging across several cultural media platforms.

TNG will enhance the Digital Newsstand (another successful Partnership Fund project) with dynamic marketing and archiving functions, see the creation of mobile-friendly versions of Magazines Canada's websites, and launch a feasibility study exploring the creation of a unique Canadian digital magazine and content platform system.

Ontario’s Ministry of Tourism and Culture drives this funding process with the Ontario Media Development Corporation. "The Partnerships Fund brings together leading Ontario companies to help them grow and compete in new markets," said Minister of Tourism and Culture Michael Chan. "The McGuinty Government is proud to invest in strategic partnerships that transform ideas into high-value content, which will create jobs and foster a prosperous creative economy that is open for business."

"We are delighted that the Government of Ontario recognizes the potential of the cultural media, and Ontario's magazine media in particular, as contributors to the future of job creation and economic activity in Ontario," said Mark Jamison, CEO, Magazines Ontario.

The Ontario Media Development Corporation (OMDC) is an agency of the Ontario Ministry of Tourism and Culture that facilitates economic development opportunities for Ontario’s cultural media industries including book and magazine publishing, film and television, music and interactive digital media industries.

Canadian Creators Lobby for Changes to Copyright Bill

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 13:52:00 -0500

As a special committee of MPs scrutinizes the government’s proposed reforms to copyright law (Bill C-32, the Copyright Modernization Act), a broad coalition of groups and associations collectively representing hundreds of thousands of creative professionals employed in Canada’s arts and culture industries has come together in a show of solidarity. Presenting the coalition’s position statement in Ottawa were Sophie Milman, internationally acclaimed jazz artist; Jean Bouchard, book publisher with Groupe Modulo/Nelson Education; Alan Cumyn, author and chair of the Writers’ Union of Canada; and Nadia Myre, multi-disciplinary visual artist from Quebec and member of the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg.

Almost 90 groups representing writers, performers, actors, illustrators, musicians, composers, publishers, poets, visual artists, playwrights, songwriters, and producers from across Canada have signed a statement that urges the Government to make changes to Bill C-32. Without these changes, the Bill would overturn the core principles of copyright law that, the coalition believes, have historically ensured a healthy environment for creators, producers, distributors and consumers of Canadian cultural content. The coalition is part of a $46 billion industry that employs more than 600,000 Canadians and contributes twice as much to the GDP as the forestry industry.

“The whole purpose of copyright is to protect creators and their work,” said Ms. Milman. “Bill C-32 turns that principle on its head by ripping away many of the rights that we have long relied upon, making it that much harder to make a living from our work.”

Citing a long list of troubling new exceptions in the bill, including the expansion of so-called “fair dealing” to cover education, the coalition warns that C-32 will cause serious damage to markets for Canada’s cultural sector and significantly reduce current and future revenues on which creators depend for their income.

“Canadian educational publishers are currently investing money and efforts to develop learning tools that will allow Canadian educators to take advantage of the power of new digital platforms,” said Mr. Bouchard. “If Bill C-32 is enacted as drafted, these investments will be vastly diminished for lack of a foreseeable and stable economic model. Education must be removed from the fair dealing purposes currently proposed by Bill C-32.”

“Bill C-32 also misses an important opportunity to establish the Artist's Resale Right in Canada,” added Ms. Myre. “Right now, artists only benefit from the first sale of our work, but we all know that the full value of an artwork is often not realized on this first sale. The value of a piece of art can skyrocket over time, but the artist receives none of that profit. The Artist’s Resale Right would fix that inequality."

“Bill C-32 threatens the collective licensing of rights by undermining the existing, effective system that makes it possible for creators and copyright owners to be paid for the use of their works,” said Mr. Cumyn.

For more information on the impact of Bill C-32 on Canadian creators and the Canadian arts and culture industries, visit www.c32jointstatement.ca to read the full statement.