IATSE talks to resume on Monday

Negotiations on a new IATSE contract will resume on Monday, after the two sides concluded their talks on Saturday without a deal.
The International Theater Employees Alliance – which represents 60,000 film and television production workers across the country – has threatened to strike if it fails to come to an agreement. In a message to members on Friday, International President Matthew D. Loeb sought to reassure those who think the talks have gone on too long, saying they should be resolved in “days, not weeks.”
Cathy Repola, national executive director of the Motion Picture Editors Guild, informed members on Saturday evening that talks will continue and negotiators “continue to stand firm on priority issues.”
“It is in the best interest of all IATSE members across the country that we continue to negotiate until it becomes clear that we cannot come to an agreement,” Repola wrote. âThis is what we intend to do as we simultaneously prepare for a work stoppage which we hope will not have to happen. We will meet again on Monday and keep you updated afterwards.
Another trade official told members on Friday that it was important to allow enough time to negotiate in good faith, as required by labor law. Members are watching the talks closely and some have grown impatient with the pace of the talks. Members voted overwhelmingly, with 99 percent support, to authorize a strike if necessary.
West Coast IATSE unions are hosting a sign-making event Sunday afternoon at the International Cinematographers Guild, Local 600 and Motion Picture Editors Guild headquarters in Hollywood. A separate event will be held at the Artisans Affiliate Property Headquarters, Local 44, in Valley Village.
Unions are asking for concessions on long working days, including a weekend rest period, longer turnaround times and increased meal penalties. The Alliance of Film and Television Producers negotiates on behalf of the studios.