The umbrella union for Hollywood's technical workers said Thursday that it had negotiated an agreement with makers of low-budget films that would for the first time cover productions in both the U.S. and Canada. The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees said the new three-year deal was signed by a group of producers including Lions Gate Entertainment Corp., Focus Features and Bob Yari Group. The agreement takes effect Jan. 1, replacing one expiring this month that applied only to U.S. productions. It aims to level the playing field between workers in both countries through uniform wages and conditions.
See "Union reaches agreement on U.S., Canada film jobs", Richard Verrier, Los Angeles Times, December 14, 2006