The Members of the Union of B.C. Performers (UBCP) ratified the new British Columbia Master Production Agreement (BCMPA) negotiated with the Canadian Affiliates of the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) and the B.C. Producers’ Branch of the Canadian Film and Television Production Association (CFTPA) with a resounding 96% in favour of the new agreement.

The new Agreement reflects wage increases for all categories of the membership, without the discounts originally proposed by the producers. Wages for the Union are now closely aligned with wages offered to performers across the country.

Howard Storey, President of UBCP stated “We are very proud of this Agreement and the respect that was demonstrated between the parties during this challenging round of negotiations. This Agreement is one that recognizes the enormous talent and contribution that UBCP performers bring to the Film and Television Industry in B.C. and provided the opportunity to work closely with ACTRA and other unions for the betterment of performers across the country”.

"This is strong and clear support for an agreement, achieved without one lost day of work over a period of one year, that is reasonable, respectable and responsible. Our negotiating team appreciates this support as it reflects on not only the UBCP but the AMPTP and CFTPA's commitment to production in B.C.” said Rob Morton, Treasurer of UBCP and Chair of the Negotiating Committee.

"We are very pleased with the results of the referendum and the support shown by our Membership,” said Mercedes Watson, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Negotiator of UBCP. “This was a difficult round of negotiations and we would not have been able to attain our goals without the unwavering support and participation of the Membership”.

The new Agreement provides for an increase in minimum fees of 3% per year, over the term of the agreement, in addition to an increase to the maximum contribution to insurance from $3,000 to $5,000. The fee for Background Performers will increase by 5.26%, from $9.50 to $10.00 per hour.

Other highlights include new language to address the current and emerging technologies of New Media, provisions for a mutual approach to the well-being of Minors and the commitment to a joint committee. Also included are terms for Reality and Lifestyle Programming and an appendix for B.C. Indie Low Budget productions.

The Agreement expires on March 31, 2009.