ST GEORGE‘S, Grenada: Musicians, photographers and writers, among others, were sensitized about copyright and intellectual property rights during a session organized by the Grenada Bar Association under the theme Copyright Made Simple. President of the Grenada Bar Association Ruggles Ferguson also indicated that a regional seminar on copyright will be held in Grenada early next year. The use of music by politician especially during elections where the songs are corrupted was discussed. Chief Executive Officer of the Copyright Organisation of Trinidad and Tobago (COTT) Allison Demas noted it is important for copyright legislation to be in place in the Caribbean to enhance the economic gains of the people. The use of artiste’s music was placed under the microscope during the seminar. She believes there is a recurring practice in the Caribbean where some are taking bites from the music of others and she warned that the practice is illegal and should not be encouraged. Should singers, writers, performers etc. ensure their rights it would translate in economic gains. Piracy was one of the problems discussed and it was felt that it has tremendous effects on the economy as well as hindering the growth of creativity. Demas says piracy discourages foreign investment and the government also loses out on the resulting in the loss of revenue. Based on laws in place at this time enforcement against piracy is done through criminal, civil or both. The police have wide powers to enter, search, seize and detain where piracy of music is taking place. Customs also have a role to play since at times infringed copies are exported to other territories. Governments should issue public condemnation, update the laws, increase penalties, encourage greater collaboration with public interest groups including Non Governmental Organizations in order to protect the work of artistes, writers and photographers Reprinted from Caribbean Net News caribbeannetnews.com