I wouldn't want to assume that there's a lack of understanding on their part.
Regardless, a mix of factors come into play. For years, I have been preparing CRTC submissions to advocate for Quebec's music industry, particularly when it comes to French-language music. What that experience has taught me is that the CRTC makes its decisions very carefully and that they are always based on evidence and facts. That is the approach it takes in regulating the industry.
I have never seen the CRTC set out rules that were completely out of step with the reality or consumer habits. The system is built on consumer behaviour.
Today, only 8% of our music is streamed, which is a paltry, marginal proportion. It's devastating to us. We know full well that the CRTC won't decide overnight that the proportion has to go up to 65%. The CRTC examines the situation before making decisions.
The platforms have the power to make an artist's career, just like radio or television. They have the ability to take an artist, help kick-start their career and put their music on the map by giving the public an opportunity to discover it. We have always seen that in Quebec. It's the same for platforms. They know what tools they have, and they know what works. When they appear before the CRTC, they can explain what the best tools and methods are. We can all work together to learn the best ways to regulate practices.
What matters at this stage is ensuring that the bill remains flexible. It has to be technology-neutral because we will be living with it for years, even decades, to come. We can't predict what the future will bring.
TikTok emerged after Bill C‑10 died on the Order Paper and before Bill C‑11 was being considered. The place of TikTok has completely changed in a few months.
Who knows where we'll be in 10 years. That is why the bill needs to be as technology-neutral as possible.