TORONTO – Following a series of marathon bargaining sessions, Canadian performers and producers have reached a new independent production agreement (IPA) governing English-language production in Canada. The Alliance of Canadian Cinema and Radio Artists (ACTRA), the Association des producteurs de films et de television (APFTQ) and the Canadian Media Production Association (CMPA) commenced negotiations on October 30 in Toronto, and concluded the negotiations in Montreal in the early hours of Saturday morning.
The new IPA includes annual increases of 2% in rates paid to performers over its three-year term. This is consistent with the increases negotiated with other unions and guilds this year says the CMPA. Pending ratification by the parties, the IPA will be effective as of January 1, 2013. Other aspects of the deal include greater flexibility for the promotion of productions, adjustments to meal period provisions, and a commitment by the parties to begin serious discussions to review, and possibly amend, the existing new media provisions of the IPA in the coming months.
“This was a challenging series of negotiations for both sides”, says Chief Negotiator and Chief Legal Officer Reynolds Mastin, “but throughout it all, there was also a deep undercurrent of mutual respect." In particular he acknowledged the work of ACTRA Chief Negotiator and National Executive Director Stephen Waddell and ACTRA Toronto Executive Director Brian Topp for the integrity and professionalism displayed during the negotiations.
“The current IPA is one of the best agreements in the world and these terms address many issues performers are facing in this rapidly-evolving industry,” said Stephen Waddell, Chief Negotiator and National Executive Director of ACTRA. “At a time when many working people are facing wage roll-backs, our members will see a pay increase and better protection in the workplace.”
ACTRA President Ferne Downey said she was pleased that the groups were able to reach an agreement that reflects its members’ priorities and provides stability to the industry. “Our film and television industry contributes so immensely to our economy, and now we can focus our energies on continuing to encourage investment and development in this vital sector, said Ferney.
The IPA covers the engagement of performers in all film, television and new media production in Canada, except for British Columbia in which province ACTRA’s local, ACTRA/UBCP negotiates a separate collective agreement. The new IPA will now go through the ratification process by all of the parties, which is expected to conclude by mid-January. The current IPA expires December 31, 2012.
