IATSE turns down the compromise tendered by AQTIS technicians

IATSE turns down the compromise tendered by AQTIS technicians

MONTREAL, July 13 /PRNewswire/ -- The much-awaited meeting between representatives of the Quebec film technician's union, l'Alliance quebecoise des techniciens de l'image et du son (AQTIS), the International Alliance of Theatrical and Stage Employees (IATSE), and Senator Francis Fox, the Quebec Culture and Communications Ministry appointed facilitator, failed to bring the issue even a step closer to resolution. The IATSE refused outright the compromise voted on by AQTIS technicians last week.

"We've reached a dead end," said AQTIS president Celine Daignault. "It's extremely disappointing, considering the major compromises made by the AQTIS since the beginning of negotiations. Our proposal - and it is no small concession - was approved by a majority vote of AQTIS members. It consists in having all productions of the AMPTP ("US majors") and their affiliates, including independents financed by the majors at the rate of least 51%, come under IATSE jurisdiction. The other productions would continue to be under an AQTIS representation, in respect of the laws of Quebec."

"It's interesting to observe how the IATSE disregards union democracy and completely ignores the opinion of members that it says it wants to represent, pushing aside a proposal ratified by a 79% majority" mentioned Mrs. Daignault.

"We've just missed an excellent opportunity to resolve a situation that has been undermining the film industry for months now. Moreover, during this meeting, the IATSE did not even see fit to offer any proposal whatsoever to try to settle the dispute," added Mrs. Daignault.

AQTIS intends to defend itself

"While negotiations were still ongoing, the IATSE made a move to certify the Walden Entertainment production of 'Journey to the Center of the Earth' which production is already shooting in Quebec under AQTIS contracts with AQTIS technicians.

This surprising action is certainly not the best way to reassure an industry and inspire confidence in producers.

About the AQTIS

The "Alliance quebecoise des techniciens de l'image et du son" (AQTIS) represents some 2,600 technicians and artists working in the Quebec film, television and video industry and has done so for some 40 years now, maintaining the stability required for the industry to continue its growth and development in Quebec.

Source: ALLIANCE QUEBECOISE DES TECHNICIENS DE L'IMAGE ET DU SON (AQTIS)

CONTACT: and interview requests: Diane Jeannotte, Diane Jeannotte
Communications, (514) 284-2860, ext. 2, Cell: (514) 772-8019; Source: Alliance
quebecoise des techniciens de l'image et du son (AQTIS)

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