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Bill C-18: Navigating Media, Big Tech, and News Access in a Global Context
Federal, Advocacy, Grassroots NewsIn the digital age, many Canadians, like people worldwide, turn to social media platforms for news. Platforms like Facebook (now Meta), Instagram, and Twitter (now X) have become integral for news dissemination. This shift has challenged the traditional news industry, with claims of over 450 local Canadian news outlets closing in the past fifteen years.[1] Some attribute this trend directly to the growth of tech giants like Google and Meta.[2] As an attempt to address this, Canada introduced Bill C-18, the Online News Act, aiming to support Canadian media outlets. However, the bill’s potential impact remains a topic of debate, especially in light of global movements to make tech giants pay for the news being shared through their platforms as outlined below.
Understanding Bill C-18
On June 21, 2022, the Government of Canada introduced Bill C-18, the Online News Act.[3] This legislation aims to regulate online platforms distributing news to Canadian audiences, ensuring fair compensation for Canadian media outlets and journalists. The Act proposes a framework to support Canadian news businesses when their content is shared on major digital platforms. This includes hyperlinks, tweets, and links to Canadian news websites. The term “digital news intermediary” is broad, covering platforms like Google and Meta. However, private messaging apps like WhatsApp and Discord are excluded.
The Act allows for exemptions for digital platforms that have agreements with news businesses to provide fair compensation.[4] The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) will oversee these agreements. While exact compensation figures are not specified in the Act, some estimates suggest potential annual compensations to Canadian news businesses could reach $329.2 million, with associated transaction and compliance costs.[5]
Context
Meta has made an official statement saying the following:
“The legislation is based on the incorrect premise that Meta benefits unfairly from news content shared on our platforms, when the reverse is true. News outlets voluntarily share content on Facebook and Instagram to expand their audiences and help their bottom line. In contrast, we know the people using our platforms don’t come to us for news.”[6]
Google is concerned that the Online News Act creates “uncapped financial liability”, because now whenever any news outlet publishes a news article – Google will be liable to pay for it.[7] Here’s what the Google & Alphabet’s President of Global Affairs, Kent Walker, had to say about Bill C-18:
“As part of our Google News Showcase program, we have negotiated agreements covering over 150 news publications across Canada. Last year alone, we linked to Canadian news publications more than 3.6 billion times — at no charge — helping publishers make money through ads and new subscriptions. This referral traffic from links has been valued at $250 million CAD annually. We’re willing to do more; we just can’t do it in a way that breaks the way that the web and search engines are designed to work, and that creates untenable product and financial uncertainty.”[8]
Several countries have introduced legislation addressing similar concerns:
Impact on Canadians
There are concerns that Bill C-18’s ambiguity might lead companies like Google and Meta to limit news content access for Canadians and we have already seen this happen. Reports suggest that Google might delist Canadian news links,[20] and Meta has already been restricting news on Facebook and Instagram for Canadian users.[21] Such actions could push Canadians towards less reliable news sources, potentially amplifying misinformation. Additionally, reduced visibility for Canadian news outlets might further strain their revenues.[22] This situation becomes especially alarming in the face of ongoing crises, such as the current wildfires in Canada. [23] As the public often relies on platforms like Google and Facebook for real-time information, these restrictions could mean that many Canadians might not receive crucial updates on wildfires as they used to. Such a lack of timely and accurate information is not only a public safety issue but could also lead to uninformed decisions during emergency situations.[24]
Political Reactions and Future Outlook
Political responses to Bill C-18 are mixed. The Bloc Québécois and NDP have expressed support for the bill’s objectives,[25] while the Conservative Party has reportedly voted against it.[26] Notable figures, including Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre, have voiced concerns about the bill’s potential repercussions.[27] The bill received Royal Assent on June 22nd, 2023, and is expected to be implemented approximately six months later.[28] The next steps are:[29]
Conclusion & Editorial Note
Bill C-18, the Online News Act, is Canada’s response to the evolving relationship between big tech and the media. While the bill aims to level the playing field, there are concerns about unintended consequences, such as reduced news access for Canadians. As the bill moves towards implementation, its true impact on Canada’s media landscape remains to be seen, especially in the broader context of global efforts to make tech giants pay for news.
It is worth noting that while tech giants like Google and Meta benefit from diverse content on their platforms, news outlets also rely on these platforms for visibility and audience reach. The symbiotic relationship between news outlets and tech platforms is complex. The team at Grassroots Public Affairs will continue monitoring the implementation of Bill C-18 and its impact closely.
[1] https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/news/2022/04/government-introduces-a-bill-to-ensure-fair-compensation-for-news-media-and-the-sustainability-of-local-news.html
[2]https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-meta-is-not-the-biggest-threat-to-canadian-newspapers/
[3] https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/understanding-bill-c-18-canada-s-online-news-act-explained-1.6488532
[4] https://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/csj-sjc/pl/charter-charte/c18_1.html
[5] https://distribution-a617274656661637473.pbo-dpb.ca/cc009955611c336af6d46f82af210ac3445e6c551b3841adae30c1088f487b41
[6] https://about.fb.com/news/2023/06/changes-to-news-availability-on-our-platforms-in-canada/
[7] https://blog.google/intl/en-ca/company-news/outreach-initiatives/an-update-on-canadas-bill-c-18-and-our-search-and-news-products/
[8] https://blog.google/intl/en-ca/company-news/outreach-initiatives/an-update-on-canadas-bill-c-18-and-our-search-and-news-products/
[9]https://www.stradalex.eu/en/se_src_publ_leg_eur_jo/toc/leg_eur_jo_3_20190517_130/doc/ojeu_2019.130.01.0092.01
[10] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_21_1807
[11] https://techcrunch.com/2021/01/21/google-inks-agreement-in-france-on-paying-publishers-for-news-reuse/
[12] https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/oct/31/spain-newspaper-google-tax
[13] https://www.bbc.com/news/business-30426496
[14] https://searchengineland.com/german-ancillary-copyright-to-go-into-effect-imposes-limits-on-search-results-159843
[15] https://www.poynter.org/business-work/2023/news-publishers-facebook-meta-google-money/
[16] https://www.poynter.org/business-work/2022/australias-news-media-bargaining-code-pries-140-million-from-google-and-facebook/
[17] https://www.accc.gov.au/by-industry/digital-platforms-and-services/news-media-bargaining-code/news-media-bargaining-code
[18] https://pressgazette.co.uk/news/uk-government-sets-out-plans-to-force-big-tech-to-pay-for-news/
[19] https://www.economicliberties.us/our-work/saving-the-news-from-big-tech-the-journalism-competition-and-preservation-act/
[20] https://magazine.alumni.ubc.ca/2023/humanities-technology/bill-c-18-google-and-meta-spark-crucial-test-canadian-journalism
[21] https://about.fb.com/news/2023/06/changes-to-news-availability-on-our-platforms-in-canada/
[22] https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/aug/01/meta-canada-news-facebook-instagram
[23] https://edition.cnn.com/2023/08/21/tech/justin-trudeau-canada-wildfires-facebook-news/index.html
[24] https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/trudeau-meta-wildfires-news-1.6942458
[25] https://www.elections.ca/content.aspx?section=abo&dir=comp/nov0122&document=p19&lang=e
[26] https://www.elections.ca/content.aspx?section=abo&dir=comp/nov0122&document=p19&lang=e
[27] https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/understanding-bill-c-18-canada-s-online-news-act-explained-1.6488532
[28] https://globaltaxnews.ey.com/news/2023-1151-canada-enacts-2023-budget-implementation-bill-no-1
[29] https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/online-news.html
The Grassroots Greenhouse 2023
Agriculture, Federal, Grassroots News, NewsCanada’s Agriculture & Food Sectors Viewed as a Key Driver of National Security and Critical Infrastructure
TORONTO, ON – August 15, 2023 – The fifth annual national Agri-Food public opinion poll by Grassroots Public Affairs finds one third of Canadians (32%) continue to see hunger and food insecurity as a very serious issue in Canada (33% in 2022), with heaviest responsibility on government to manage the national problem. Most Canadians (72%) are opting for lower-cost or discounted food items (up from 38% in 2020).
In partnership with Food Banks Canada, Fertilizer Canada, and other sector stakeholders, Grassroots’ online survey measured attitudes, direction, and intensity of public opinion on a range of issues around Canada’s domestic Agri-Food sector.
While 46% of Canadians see Healthcare as the most important industry for Canada’s national security and critical infrastructure, 42% identified Agriculture and Agri-Food as the lead driver. Interesting findings include:
“So much has changed over the past 3 years, including supply chain viability, and increasing food prices, but Canadians still believe strongly in the potential of domestic food production. There will always be challenges, but few other industries are consistently viewed as positively. Canada’s Agriculture and Agri-Food sector is resilient, and with the full support of government it will continue to help Canada regain economic stability,” says Peter Seemann, Principal & Sr. Consultant at Grassroots Public Affairs.
Multiple years of thorough research has reinforced Grassroots Public Affairs strong belief in the growth potential of Canada’s domestic food system. We will be releasing more detailed findings including demographic breakdowns on a variety of questions in the coming weeks.
Methodology and Sample Size
The Canada-wide survey was conducted via an online panel of 1,000 Canadians 18+. Fieldwork for the survey took place between May 3rd and May 18th, and the survey was offered in English and French.
View the ‘Greenhouse’ Findings’ below:
Grassroots-Greenhouse-2023-Report-V10-Final-VersionFor media inquiries, please contact:
Lindsay Yaciuk – Communications, Grassroots Public Affairs
lindsay@grassrootspa.ca 905-715-2788
Trudeau’s Summer Shuffle: What You Need to Know
Federal, NewsWednesday, July 26th, 2023, Ottawa, ON – This morning, in an attempt to ready the Liberals for the next election, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau unveiled a significant cabinet shuffle. This shuffle was not a surprise and was anticipated to be the largest change since 2021 – and that it was. The front bench has undergone a makeover with several new ministers sworn in and a significant change to key portfolios.
Quick Facts
The 8 Remaining
The 23 Changes
* New House Leader Karina Gould has announced upcoming parental leave in the winter therefore the Honourable Steven MacKinnon (Chief Government Whip) will serve as House Leader in her absence. Deputy Government Whip Ruby Sahota will step up as Chief Government Whip to replace MacKinnon while he is gone.
The 7 Newcomers
The 7 Leaving
This cabinet shuffle will allow ministers to meet with government officials, learn their files and re-build their political policy teams where needed before the fall session starts on September 18th. While a congratulatory letter is always a nice first touch, it may be better to wait a month or two until ministers settle into their new roles. If you know staffers who are moving to a new office (or staying with a new minister) reach out to them in the next couple of weeks to touch base. Organizations have a great opportunity to meet these new ministers over the coming months.
Need help communicating with government? Grassroots Public Affairs can help! Contact us to start building a GR plan ahead of the fall session.
Don’t Let Summer Advocacy Opportunities Pass You By!
AdvocacyParliament has risen for the summer and will not return to regular sittings until September 18th. Many organizations choose to also “take the summer off” from advocacy activities and turn their focus to internal business operations. While one can understand the need to take a break, it can be a short-sighted approach and cause an organization to lose momentum gained from the previous parliamentary session.
As summer approaches, we at Grassroots challenge our clients to distinguish themselves from others – don’t let easy summer advocacy opportunities pass you by.
Building relationships with bureaucrats and staffers.
Those who really understand the inner workings of government know that the implementers of government policy and decisions are certainly guided by parliamentarians but executed by bureaucrats and staffers. Many argue that these are the folks who can be even more influential than MPs or ministers who often come and go with every election. Meanwhile, bureaucrats and staffers may have careers of 15, 20, 30 years or more of service and are well worth getting to know, professionally and personally.
Scheduling time for a coffee or an after-hours drink can be a simple and affordable way to get acquainted and build a relationship. When these opportunities present themselves, resist the urge to “pitch” to them; instead, get to know them and listen! Talk less – listen more. Pay attention to what they have to say. As your relationship gets stronger, you can gently pick their brains and get a first-hand feel for what’s going on but take it slow, no pressure. Most bureaucrats and staffers are quite open to meeting with business leaders and stakeholders because, let’s face it, they know that relationships will come in very handy when they themselves may be on the market for new opportunities.
Continue to seek out easier meetings with MPs and Minsters on their turf.
Elected officials are always glad to get home – literally and figuratively. This can present better chances for an in-person meeting without the pressure of House of Commons rules & regulations and limited schedules that dominate time spent in the capital.
But keep your purpose focused and well communicated. You do need to let the person setting the meeting know that you’ll not waste their boss’s time. Flattery may work without manipulation or even any hint of manipulation. And finding any local angle that might be of interest to the MP, as it relates to their home riding or community, is always a great way to make a connection. For example, leveraging the financial value of your organization in the riding community and the local value of employment opportunities for the people living and voting there.
Grassroots can help you gather detailed information about MPs in all ridings across Canada and help target specific MPs in a way that can better connect you to their priorities. Targeted communication always gets better results than a shotgun approach.
Clients are asking:
The most often asked question in times of minority governments is – will there be a snap election anytime soon? The short answer is no.
Within the Liberal and NDP alliance, while showing signs of fragility, neither party wants to trigger an election. The NDP continue to support the Liberals as their polling numbers are consistently stagnant and money to fund a campaign always an issue. They are in no hurry. The Liberals are content to carry on and unless a major screw up comes to light, we foresee no election call until spring 2024 at the earliest, or the fixed election deadline of 2025.
Of course, the Conservatives would prefer to go to the polls at any point, but all three opposition parties would be needed to fell the government and that seems highly improbable.
The next most commonly posed question is around the economy – how might it impact this Liberal government?
With inflation rates seemingly continuing to rise, there is no doubt it will impact the federal government. As Canadians see their mortgage payments rising, soaring grocery prices, and takeout food getting more and more expensive, people will be paying closer attention to what the opposition parties are saying.
Canadians are tiring of paying more for just about everything, and with the Liberals flailing in the polls, and, having been in power for 8 years already, 9 or 10 years by the time the next election is called, voters may be ready for a change. The Conservatives are in a great spot to put new ideas forward and win voters over. Canadians have had enough.
Remember, most voters only pay close attention to politics occasionally or rarely, and they often vote out a party rather than vote another one in.
The team at Grassroots will continue to closely monitor the political landscape and keep you updated.
Enjoy your summer!
Navigating Political Staff Turnover: The Imperative of Stakeholder Management
Provincial, Advocacy, News, OntarioOntario’s political landscape is as fluid as the ocean tides. An almost palpable undercurrent of constant change pervades Whitney block and Queen’s Park due to an inherently high turnover rate among political staffers. Promotions, new positions, cabinet shuffles, and countless other factors contribute to this churn. While it is often invigorating, it can also present significant challenges, such as – maintaining continuous connections, promptly identifying new stakeholders, and managing these engagements effectively. This article will delve into the dynamic nature of political staffing and underscore the crucial role of expert stakeholder management.
The Challenge of Staff Churn
Political offices often resemble a revolving door, with people moving in and out frequently. This constant change reflects the nature of political life, where adaptability and quick responses to changing circumstances are prized assets. In my previous article (A Roadmap to Success – Lobbying the Ontario Government), I emphasized the importance of identifying the right people when lobbying government. However, as these “right people” may change rapidly due to staff turnover, organizations face a continuous challenge of staying informed about these changes and adjusting their strategies accordingly.
The Importance of Expert Stakeholder Management
The ceaseless evolution of political offices highlights the need for a well-orchestrated stakeholder management strategy. Such a strategy ensures that, despite personnel changes, an organization’s advocacy efforts remain effective and targeted. An experienced stakeholder manager can create a flexible and resilient approach that accommodates change without sacrificing the focus on the organization’s objectives.
The Role of Stakeholder Analysis
Stakeholder analysis, an integral part of effective stakeholder management, encompasses a range of methodologies. One simple yet impactful approach involves tracking stakeholders, assessing their unique needs, and positioning them within the power/interest grid defined by two parameters—Stakeholder Power and Stakeholder Interest. This process enables organizations to evaluate the current level of influence and interest each stakeholder holds towards an advocacy issue. It also aids in envisioning the desired future state and formulating a strategy to steer each stakeholder towards that intended state.
Carrying out such an analysis necessitates the expertise of a seasoned professional adept in tailoring strategies to meet the unique needs and positions of each stakeholder. This practice, which includes closely managing the expectations of high-power and high-interest stakeholders and adequately informing those with high-interest but lower power, not only fortifies the advocacy efforts but also offers a level of personalized attention that is valued by government officials and political staffers. Furthermore, stakeholders wielding high-power but manifesting low-interest should be satisfactorily informed, ensuring the optimal balance of support for the advocacy issues at hand.
Adapting to Change – The Pivotal Role of Stakeholder Engagement Management
In the inherently dynamic world of Ontario politics, advocacy success hinges on adaptability and the proactive management of stakeholder engagement. A tailored approach that recognizes and responds to political staff turnover can make the difference between successful advocacy and lost opportunities. This is where the expertise of Grassroots Public Affairs and the power of thorough stakeholder analysis become invaluable.
Background photo of Whitney Block by Mateusz Walendzik: https://www.pexels.com/photo/beige-concrete-building-under-the-blue-sky-13653633/
Artem Chaplynsky
Consultant
Artem contributes a multifaceted background in project management, strategic communications, and stakeholder engagement to our team. During his 4-year tenure as a Policy and Special Advisor at the Office of the Premier of Ontario, Artem developed expertise in policy development and political communications. With experience in both the public and private sectors, he understands the importance of building relationships between businesses, governments, and communities. At Grassroots, Artem helps clients navigate the complexities of government and public relations with confidence, aligning their interests with public needs. As a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with an Honors Specialization in International Relations degree from Western University, Artem applies proven research and project management skills to his advocacy work. He is committed to fostering open dialogue between policymakers and clients, ensuring that innovative technologies and ideas are recognized and understood.
A heartfelt thank you, to Ontario’s healthcare workers…
PersonalLindsay Yaciuk from Grassroots Public Affairs reflects on her recent healthcare journey and extends a heartfelt thank you to Ontario healthcare workers.
Recently, I had surgery at Southlake Regional Hospital in Newmarket. Due to constraints on the healthcare system, I waited several months for it. My diagnosis required the removal of a large anomaly from my abdomen, but thankfully it was not cancer so other patients were, understandably, prioritized ahead of me.
I must admit, based on seemingly endless media reports of a healthcare system “in crisis” and “critically short staffed”, I was terrified to have an operation. It’s a leap of faith at the best of times to surrender one’s consciousness to virtual strangers wielding sharp instruments, but within a system “in crisis” I felt like I was about to join a high stakes poker game at Caesars Palace…I was ‘all in’ and not feeling lucky…
Turns out, I had absolutely nothing to fear.
Notwithstanding the many efficient and gracious healthcare workers I encountered during my battery of pre-op scans and tests, the team of medical professionals waiting for me on operation day was, frankly, astounding.
In total there were 2 surgeons, 1 anesthesiologist, and 3 nurses ready to operate. That’s 6 highly qualified professionals entirely focused on my procedure and my welfare, for almost 2 hours. Incredible. I haven’t received that much individual attention since…well, ever.
Clearly, healthcare provision is an expensive endeavour. And based on my recent experiences, I have come to believe it’s worth every penny. And then some.
8 months ago, I didn’t have a doctor or an up-to-date health card. But I did have a medical problem. Fast forward to today and I’m down one uncomfortable abdominal mass, and up one huge amount of gratitude to all the wonderful people who helped me get better.
I certainly realize all experiences are not equal, so I can only speak for myself, but throughout my healthcare journey I received nothing but kindness and understanding and excellent care. For a system in crisis, Ontario’s healthcare workers are crushing it!
THANK YOU, from the bottom of my heart.
Lindsay Yaciuk
Communications
Lindsay has 23 years corporate communications and leadership experience in the insurance sector, with specialties in Mergers & Acquisitions, Human Resources, and Strategic Planning. An accomplished writer and speaker, Lindsay is dedicated to accurate yet impassioned depictions of campaign goals. Her diplomatic and collaborative approach yields consistent communication and advocacy results. Lindsay holds an Honours BA in English Literature from Nipissing University.