Canadian film and television unions have taken a significant step by coming together to form FAIR. This alliance is dedicated to ensuring accountable industry policies and the responsible use of taxpayer dollars. The groups involved, such as ACTRA, ARRQ, DGC, IATSE, NABET 700-M UNIFOR, SARTEC, UDA, and WGC, have been actively lobbying Telefilm Canada to adopt a similar policy to that of the Canada Media Fund. It is crucial to address the issue of production companies not signing collective agreements, as shown by the statistics. 27% of productions with budgets over $5 million are not signing, 65% of those with budgets under $1 million are signing with only half or fewer unions, and 31% in the middle range are also facing similar challenges. Telefilm Canada is currently in discussions with the unions on this matter. At the Telefilm Annual Public Assembly, the group challenged the Crown agency on its plan to hold production companies accountable without a clear policy. Telefilm President Julie Roy reiterated the agency's commitment to a healthy ecosystem but also emphasized that they are still in discussions and exploring sustainable solutions. At Broadcast Dialogue®, we are committed to providing industry-leading insights, news, and analysis directly to your inbox for free. By sharing full and accurate information, we can sustain this free resource and deliver high-quality content to keep you informed about the latest trends and developments in the broadcast landscape. The Weekly Briefing from Broadcast Dialogue® is delivered exclusively to our subscribers by email every Thursday.

Uniting for a Responsible Film and Television Industry

Formation of FAIR

The coming together of Canadian film and television unions to form FAIR is a landmark event. It shows their collective determination to bring about positive change in the industry. These unions, with their diverse memberships, are working together to address important issues such as industry policy and the use of taxpayer dollars. By uniting, they have a stronger voice and can have a greater impact on shaping the future of the film and television sector.

Each union brings its unique perspective and expertise to the table. ACTRA, for example, represents actors and has a crucial role in ensuring fair treatment and working conditions. ARRQ focuses on Quebec's film and television industry, while DGC represents directors. Together, they form a powerful alliance that can advocate for the interests of all stakeholders in the industry.

Lobbying for Policy Adoption

The lobbying efforts of FAIR to get Telefilm Canada to adopt the same policy as the Canada Media Fund are of great significance. This policy requires producers to maintain good standing with industry unions and guilds to qualify for funding. It addresses the issue of production companies not signing collective agreements, which can lead to unfair practices and disputes.

The statistics presented by FAIR highlight the extent of the problem. A significant number of productions, especially those with lower budgets, are not signing with the full range of applicable unions and guilds. This not only affects the rights and interests of workers but also has implications for the overall quality and sustainability of the industry. By advocating for this policy, FAIR is aiming to create a more equitable and stable environment for film and television production in Canada.

Telefilm's Position and Discussions

Telefilm Canada's position on this issue is complex. While they are committed to supporting a healthy ecosystem, they are still in discussions with the unions and guilds. This indicates that finding a sustainable solution requires careful negotiation and collaboration.

The agency's efforts to explore ways to hold production companies accountable in the absence of a clear policy show their recognition of the importance of the issue. However, the ongoing discussions also highlight the need for a comprehensive and agreed-upon approach. It is essential that all parties work together to find solutions that benefit the industry as a whole.

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