B.C. film, television workers issue strike notice

A union representing workers in B.C.’s film and television industry has issued 72-hour strike notice, the latest development in a lengthy labour negotiation.

A union representing workers in B.C.’s film and television industry has issued 72-hour strike notice, the latest development in a lengthy labour negotiation.

The Directors Guild of Canada, BC District Council (DGC BC), announced the move Tuesday. The gruop represents creative and logistical staff including directors, editors, location managers, production assistants, and others. They have been working without a collective agreement for over a year.

Earlier this month they called their first-ever strike vote, with job action supported by the vast majority of members.

A Monday meeting with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers and the Canadian Media Producers Association-BC failed to produce a deal, according to the union.

"We had expected them to address the issues that are vitally important to our members. They did not,” said district council chairman Allan Harmon in a statement.

"Their refusal to address these issues has left us with no other choice but to issue strike notice."

The sticking points, according to the union, include retroactive pay increases, payment for COVID-19 testing, and wages for those in entry-level or lower-paid positions. In addition, the union says with B.C.’s minimum wage increasing to $15.65 an hour in June, some experienced members will be making the provincial minimum despite industry experience.