LIANZA on the TPPA

The Copyright Committee of the Library and Information Association of New Zealand (LIANZA) notes the conclusion of the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement negotiations.

While the final text of the Agreement is still to be made available, and there may still be more contentious details to come, the extension of New Zealand's copyright term from 50 to 70 years has been confirmed.

LIANZA sees copyright as a way to balance the rights of copyright holders with those of users of copyright materials. It recognises the need for copyright to reward creators for their works and to encourage their creation of new works, but it also recognises and supports the value generated from works in the public domain. LIANZA believes the loss and cost to the public from extending New Zealand's copyright term will outweigh any benefits that may come from such a move.

ENDS

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