As a member of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), it is important to understand the collective agreements that govern the relationship between employers and employees in the film and television industry. In Canada, IATSE Local 667 represents the professionals who work behind the cameras, including assistants, operators, and technicians. The collective agreement negotiated by Local 667 establishes the terms and conditions of employment, including wages, hours of work, and benefits.
The most recent collective agreement between Local 667 and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) was ratified in 2018 and is effective until December 31, 2021. The agreement covers a range of issues, from minimum salaries for different job classifications to meal and rest periods to health and safety standards. Here are some of the key provisions of the agreement:
Wages and Salaries: The collective agreement establishes minimum rates of pay for members of Local 667, based on their job classification and years of experience. For example, a second assistant camera operator with five or more years of experience is guaranteed a minimum rate of $39.10 per hour, while a key grip with the same level of experience earns a minimum of $44.60 per hour.
Hours of Work: The agreement includes provisions for regular and overtime work, as well as for rest and meal breaks. Members of Local 667 can work up to 12 hours per day on a regular basis, with overtime pay kicking in after eight hours. They are also entitled to at least 30 minutes for a meal break every five hours, and a 10-minute rest break for every four hours of work.
Benefits: The collective agreement includes provisions for health and welfare benefits, pension contributions, and other forms of compensation. Members of Local 667 are entitled to medical and dental coverage, as well as disability and life insurance. They can also participate in a pension plan, with contributions from both the employer and the employee.
Health and Safety: The collective agreement contains extensive provisions for health and safety in the workplace. Employers are required to provide a safe working environment, with appropriate training, equipment, and supervision. Members of Local 667 also have the right to refuse work if they believe it is unsafe, without fear of reprisal.
Overall, the collective agreements negotiated by IATSE Local 667 are essential for protecting the rights and interests of film and television professionals in Canada. By establishing minimum standards for wages, hours of work, and benefits, these agreements ensure that members of Local 667 are compensated fairly for their valuable contributions to the industry. If you are a member of Local 667, it is important to familiarize yourself with the provisions of the collective agreement and to seek support from your union if you feel that your rights are being violated.