The passage of Bills C-244 and C-294 are an important step forward and significant victory for Canadian farmers. After years of advocacy, these bills provide farmers the ability to repair their own equipment, ensuring the continued functionality of the advanced technology essential to modern agriculture.

Amongst many organizations applauding the passage of the bills is The Grain Growers of Canada (GGC). GGC extends its gratitude to the Members of Parliament and Senators who supported these bills, and especially to MPs Wilson Miao and Jeremy Patzer, along with Senators Colin Deacon and Leo Housakos, for their dedicated sponsorship and guidance of this legislation through Parliament,” says a media release from GGC.

“With Bill C-244 amending the Copyright Act, farmers will now have access to crucial diagnostic software needed to repair sophisticated machinery, from tractors to combines and sprayers. Similarly, Bill C-294, also amending the Copyright Act, facilitates the interoperability of parts and equipment, enhancing farm productivity and efficiency. Together, these Bills enshrine the right to repair, helping farmers manage their operations sustainably and independently.”

GGC is calling on the provinces to consider similar measures.