Union in Vancouver?

By Aruna on July 31, 2007 8:44 PM | Category: News | | Comments (0) | Views: 209

Last night there was a productive meeting about the state of a VFX union in Vancouver. While I was unable to attend, there was a good number of attendees, and hit the link below to see the minutes from the meeting. All visual effects artists in Vancouver should at least read the minutes, and see where they stand. As well, there is a draft Letter of Understanding, as well as a draft Constitution. They are both PDFs. If you're in the industry for the long haul, I urge you to read the minutes, and contribute to your industry.

AGENDA - Meeting July 30, 2007

Introduction: Jean-Luc Dinsdale, Charlene Eberle, Mark Savela, Mark Meloche, and Ivan Hayden

Background: Purpose for meetings

  • BSG (Battlestar Galactica) vote in favour of IASTE local 891 (union) representation.
  • This generated email frenzy.
  • It was decided that a smaller number of people would get together and go on a fact finding mission.
  • A meeting was held

Synchronization: Re-visit key points from previous meeting.

  • IASTE 891 (union) concerns
    • Being set up by people not knowing our branch of the industry
    • 891 are Technicians not artists
      • Who have no idea what sitting behind a computer is like.
    • Method 891 is going about getting VFX. With / Without our input.
    • 4000+ members in 891 – VFX would be a drop in the bucket when it comes to voting compared to our 400? people.
    • Cross over from existing 891 members taking jobs and not beingqualified, thus chasing away work due to perception of unqualified vfx staff in Vancouver.
  • Consensus was to look into options for Association rather than Unionize.
    • Was it possible / too late.
    • What could do etc.

Point of Meeting: Presentation of new information.

  • It is possible.
  • In early June: IASTE (IA) international was in Victoria and VFX was a top topic.
    • Vancouver will be where IA is gunning to get their foot in the door for VFX assimilation globally.
    • IA is holding the BSG vote in abeyance
      • Seeking CFTPA (Producer’s Association) voluntary recognition of VFX under local 891.
  • Purpose of an Association
    • Promote the Industry.
      • Generate interest in Local VFX industry to draw work to town.
      • Lobby for Tax Incentives.
  • Provide a Voice to the Artist / the little guy.
    • Educate
    • Lobby the government for labour code.
    • Train

Open Discussion:

  • Pros and Cons of Union vs. Association.
    • Tax breaks and Credits (Lobbying) – association.
    • Union doesn’t represent VFX as a whole and is being set up by people who have no clue what is involved in the creation of VFX (See Proposed Letter of Agreement put forth to the Producer’s Association in order to get voluntary recognition for IASTE local 891 to have representation of VFX).
    • Association to provide voice for Artists.
      • Unions will go after them first.
      • They are the ones, if not treated well, will be attracted to the “quick fix” presented by the Union.
    • Much debate.
      • Union “quick fix” not considered good for VFX.
  • VES:
    • Nancy Mott presented information on what the VES would and would not do in these avenues.
      • They would provide a space on their website for members ( 5 years experience minimum) and non-members for an “availability” list.
      • Will not promote BC VFX in LA or other markets.Can create events, education, and general pay scales list.
      • Will not take action regarding producer meeting / governmental lobbying.
    • Questions why VES would not do what was being discussed. The VES mission statement. VES not that type of association.
    • Much debate
      • The mandate of the VES does not apply to what Vancouver community currently needs.
      • A local association can do all the things the local community is currently discussing.

Direction: What are the desired next steps?

  • Vote held: Form an Association?
    • 33 attendees:
      • For Association: 33
      • Against: 0
    • Agreement on adequate cross sample of industry professional to uphold the vote.
    • New panel voted in. Same 5 people.
  • Action:
    • Panel to set in motion legal formulation of Association.
    • Organize another meeting
      • People present to spread information regard meeting within Industry.
      • Bring 2 industry professionals to next meeting.
      • Will form committees next meeting to help share the work load.
    • Present minutes publicly.
    • Present draft constitution created by the panel for their discussions for public input on direction.

Summation: Ensure public understanding of direction.

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