Today’s announcement by Prime Minister Trudeau that the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) eligibility is being opened to allow individuals to earn $1000 or less per month is welcome news for musicians and other creators, many of whom generate ongoing, but greatly reduced income, from performances, lessons etc.

There has also been clarification from the Minister of Canadian Heritage on how royalties will be treated for purposes of CERB.  He tweeted today: “Creators who are receiving royalty payments from prior copyrighted work are eligible for the Canadian Emergency Response Benefit, provided that they meet other requirements.” MROC joined other copyright collectives in contacting the Department of Canadian Heritage when the CERB was first announced to request clarification that receipt of royalty payments will not prevent creators from qualifying for CERB.  With this issue now addressed, MROC is proceeding with its ongoing royalty distributions.  If you have concerns about receiving royalties at this time, feel free to contact us at info@musiciansrights.ca.