Google and Canadian Publishers Seek Common Ground on News Compensation Law
Google and Canadian publishers are working to find common ground on a new law that will require the tech giant to compensate publishers for the use of their work. The lobby group for Canada’s newspapers and magazines, News Media Canada, has expressed agreement with many of the concerns raised by Google regarding the Online News Act.
Paul Deegan, head of News Media Canada, welcomed Google’s submission, stating that it provided a clear and constructive articulation of legitimate concerns. He noted that News Media Canada shares Google’s view that there should be a cap on the amount the company would have to pay under the law. Furthermore, compensation should go beyond direct payments to include elements like training, and incentives should be in place to facilitate agreements between Google and publishers.
The Online News Act, scheduled to take effect in December, will oblige digital giants to negotiate agreements with news publishers to compensate them for the sharing or repurposing of their content on online platforms.
Google, in its submission, expressed reservations about the draft regulations for the act, claiming that they failed to address its concerns. The company warned that unless these concerns are adequately addressed, it would remove news links from its search engine by the end of the year. Google’s primary concerns include the absence of a cap on liability and issues with the formula used to determine its required contribution. The government estimated a yearly contribution of $172 million, while Google suggested a lower figure of $100 million based on past guidance.
Despite previous tensions between News Media Canada and Google, with accusations of bullying made by Deegan in February, the publishers are now willing to collaborate with the tech giant to resolve outstanding issues before the regulations are finalized. Deegan emphasized the importance of Google in helping Canadians find reliable news sources and expressed confidence in finding a way forward that maintains the mutually beneficial relationship between the company and publishers.
In conclusion, Google and Canadian publishers are engaged in ongoing discussions to find consensus on the issues surrounding the Online News Act. While Google has expressed concerns about the draft regulations, News Media Canada welcomes their submission as a constructive contribution. Both parties are committed to resolving these concerns and ensuring that the relationship between Google and publishers continues to thrive.
