Following RiSA's announcement on the formation of SAMPRA and RAV in June 2007, the AIRCO executive committee cautioned members not to apply for membership of, or assign mandates to, these collection societies or any other societies until we had sought legal opinions on this very complex matter and reverted to members with our recommendations concerning collection society activity.

After extensive research and consultations with our international affiliates, government agencies and other collection societies regarding alternative possibilities as well as engaging in discussions with RiSA concerning its proposed collection schemes, we have prepared a document, the purpose of which is to clarify AIRCO's position in relation to the establishment of collection societies for the implementation of Performance Rights of recorded music works.

The attached document, which has been sent to RiSA, is intended to serve as the basis for continued discussions between AIRCO and RiSA with respect to the establishment of one collection society that administers the rights on behalf of all record companies and performers. Similar letters have been sent to SARRAL and SAMRO and we are also in the process of furthering talks with both of these societies.

Kind Regards

Ken Haycock