BARGAINING UPDATE FOR THE: 2021 – 2024 BCCFU MASTER AGREEMENT

On February 4th, 2021, the Alliance of Motion Picture Television Producers (AMPTP), the Canadian Media Producers’ Association (CMPA) and the BC Council of Film Unions (BCCFU) comprised of Teamsters 155, IATSE 891, and ICG 669 exchanged proposals. It quickly became apparent that we were heading into a difficult and challenging round of negotiations.  Negotiations continued from February 9th until Friday, February 26th. After 12 days of bargaining, we ran out of our scheduled time and were unable to reach a satisfactory agreement. To be honest, I am disappointed in the Producer’s position on numerous items.

Bargaining between the Parties, via Zoom due to the global pandemic, has proven to be challenging, and issues over COVID-19 costs to production are front and centre.

At this time, our bargaining committee is unified and resolute in pursuing the best agreement we can for all our members, as well as the BC Council of Film Unions member-unions and their constituents.  At this point it is my opinion that we are still far apart on several proposals, however, we are dedicated to bridging the gaps, and achieve fair compensation in the process.

At this point we have yet to schedule future dates to continue bargaining with the AMPTP / CMPA to conclude a new agreement prior to the expiry date of March 31. The existing agreement will apply until a new agreement is negotiated and ratified.

Our bargaining committee has been given the mandate by you, the members, to hold strong on our principal belief that there has never been a better time to bargain a fair agreement in one of the most desirable film locations in the world. That’s our commitment to you.

In Solidarity,

Lorrie Ward
Secretary-Treasurer
Teamsters Local Union No.155