Telecommunications Carriers’ Forum
Auckland, 23 February 2009
TCF Welcomes Progress On Copyright
The Telecommunications Carriers’ Forum (TCF) welcomes the government’s decision to postpone the introduction of s92A of
the Copyright Act until the end of March.
“Internet service providers have been working tirelessly to develop a Code of Practice to cover s92A, but despite their
best efforts some important detail remains to be resolved,” TCF CEO Ralph Chivers said. “Given that s92A has caused
considerable public concern, it is important to have complete clarity on how this section of the Act is likely to be
implemented. The additional time provides the opportunity to seek that clarity, and ensure that affected parties are
fully prepared.”
“Recent discussions between the TCF and copyright holders about the content and operation of the Code have been
constructive, and it seems likely that we will be able to reach an agreement on all outstanding matters in the near
future,” Mr Chivers said.
“Importantly, we have agreed in principle that when a dispute arises over whether a copyright infringement has occurred,
an independent third-party will be called upon to adjudicate. Our agreement on this matter should allay many of the
concerns expressed by members of the public, and paves the way for other issues to be quickly resolved.”
The TCF is currently consulting on its draft Code, and welcomes further submissions. “It is critical that we hear from
all parties who are affected by, or have an interest in, this important matter,” Mr Chivers said.
ENDS
A copy of the TCF’s draft ISP Copyright Code can be obtained from www.tcf.org.nz/copyright.
Submissions on the draft Code should be sent to submissions@tcf.org.nz, or by post to:
Telecommunications Carriers’ Forum
PO Box 302 469
North Harbour
Auckland
Submission should be received by the TCF by no later than 5pm, Friday 6 March 2009.
ENDS