Google has revealed its decision to remove links to Canadian news from its search results and related products, following in the footsteps of Meta (formerly Facebook). This action comes as a response to the newly enacted Canadian law, Bill C-18 or the Online News Act, which mandates that internet companies such as Google and Meta pay publishers for displaying links to news content. Google has expressed disagreement with this approach, stating that it is not the right way to support journalism in Canada.
Despite paying to support Canadian journalism through various programs and partnerships, Google believes that paying publishers for displaying news links will create uncertainty for its products and expose the company to potentially unlimited financial liability. As a result, Google has decided to remove links to Canadian news from its Search, News, and Discover products. It will also no longer operate Google News Showcase in Canada.
The law is expected to take effect in six months, and both Google and Meta have taken steps to comply. Meta previously announced the end of news availability on its Facebook and Instagram platforms in Canada prior to the enactment of the Online News Act. Google, through its Google News Showcase program, has already negotiated agreements with over 150 news publications in Canada.
In conclusion, both Google and Meta have decided to restrict access to news content in Canada due to the implementation of the Online News Act, citing concerns about the financial and operational implications of the law.
