Public Consultation On Changes To The Jurisdiction And Operational Aspects Of Th

Public Consultation On Changes To The Jurisdiction And Operational Aspects Of The Copyright Tribunal, 11th February to 10th March 2008

The Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS) is inviting feedback on the proposed changes to the jurisdiction and procedures of the Copyright Tribunal (Tribunal).? These changes are intended to enhance the role of the Tribunal in meeting the growing needs of users and owners of copyright works in the digital age.? Members of the public will have from 11th February to 10th March 2008 to review and give feedback on the consultation documents.

Several options on possible ways of addressing the stated needs are given below.? In your written submission, you are also invited to give further inputs or suggestions in relation to any aspect of the Tribunal.? Your feedback should describe how the proposed changes and your suggestions may affect you and how to address and strike a fair balance between the interest of copyright holders and the interests of users to have access to copyright works on reasonable terms.

The Tribunal only has jurisdiction to hear such disputes as are specifically provided for under the Copyright Act. Currently, the specified jurisdiction of the Tribunal is narrow, and consequently, the Tribunal has limited ability to adjudicate in license disputes and thereby play an effective role in the maintenance of the fair balance between the ownership interests of copyright holders and the interests of users in having access to copyright works on reasonable terms.?

The Tribunal is currently NOT empowered to resolve disputes in relation to charges payable to a copyright owner for the public screening or reproduction of a film. Proprietors of entertainment outlets who wish to screen music videos in their outlets cannot apply to the Tribunal if they are of the view that the license fees charged or terms imposed by copyright owners are unreasonable.

Therefore, IPOS is inviting feedback on the following proposed changes to the jurisdiction and operational aspects of the Tribunal:

(a)?enabling the Tribunal to hear disputes concerning remuneration and/or royalties payable in respect of licenses for all uses of all types of copyright works, including music and films;

(b)?increasing the number of Tribunal panel members; and

(c)?appointing up to two Deputy Presidents.

For more information and access to the public consultation documents, please click? here .