The Canadian Film and Television Production Association (CFTPA) has been in discussions with ACTRA over the last several days, urging ACTRA to return to bargaining as soon as possible. Several conversations between Chief Negotiators, John Barrack, CFTPA and Stephen Waddell, ACTRA have taken place over the weekend and into the early part of this week. The intent of these conversations was to explore new ideas and new approaches to resolve the remaining issues including Wages and New Media.

The Producers’ bargaining team consists of staff and representatives from the CFTPA and the Association des producteurs de films et de télévision du Québec (APFTQ). The US member companies taking part in negotiations are required to become members of the CFTPA when they choose to work in Canada. To date, the number of Canadian companies participating in negotiations is 18. The number of American companies represented is 7. It should be noted that Stephen Waddell explicitly requested that the CFTPA include our American partners in all aspects of bargaining.

“The CFTPA Board of Directors has full confidence in our negotiating team and fully supports the efforts of all of our bargaining partners,” said Ira Levy, Chair, Board of Directors, CFTPA, “It really is time for ACTRA to stop the mudslinging and take a good long look at our proposal and follow the lead of its members who seem to get it.”

“Our messaging to ACTRA and the entire industry has been clear and consistent from the beginning of negotiations. We are ready to bargain. We’ve shown extreme flexibility with this proposal and don’t have much more room to maneuver,” said John Barrack, Chief Negotiator, CFTPA, “On a regular basis we hear from concerned ACTRA Members who are tired of the lack of clear communication coming from ACTRA to its members. As a result we are looking for ways to speak directly to ACTRA Members, so they understand how good our package really is.”

A recent example of the strength of the Producers’ deal is outlined in a letter circulated by Paulino Nunes, a concerned ACTRA member. In the letter, Mr. Nunes states that his update is intended for ACTRA members who are interested in becoming better informed on the issues around bargaining. This is a thoughtful and articulate letter that breaks the CFTPA proposal down into issues that matter to individual actors. In an effort to help Mr. Nunes reach more ACTRA Members, the CFTPA has posted his letter, which you can read by clicking here.