A living for a living writer

The European Writers' Council administrative board has welcomed a proposal of the Irish Writers' Union on providing State support for writers in their old age.
Ireland benefits enormously through the exploitation of dead writers' reputations and works; but provides no State recognition for older living writers whose earning capabilities has diminished with time. Proposed is: "That many writers, despite critical acclaim and earlier successes in their writing careers often find themselves in an impoverished state when approaching old age and Government should support these writers in recognition of the social and cultural richness which they have contributed to their communities and their country." more

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Fair Use is not Fair Play

A doctrine of fair use when re-publishing copyrighted material is not fair play, according to the National Union of Journalists. Richard Bruton TD Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (left) has set up a committee to examine the current copyright legislative framework. Bruton said: "I am determined that government will make whatever changes are necessary to allow innovative digital companies reach their full potential in Ireland. Some companies have indicated that the current copyright legislation does not cater well for the digital environment and actually creates barriers to innovation and to the establishment of new business models. Moving towards a US-style 'fair use' doctrine is one suggestion that has been made. I am determined to respond to these suggestions in a comprehensive and timely manner." more

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