The Writers Guild of Canada (WGC) has recently taken a significant step by voting overwhelmingly in favor of authorizing strike action if ongoing talks with the Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA) do not reach a resolution. This decision, marking the highest turnout in WGC history with 70.2% of eligible voters involved, reflects the members’ strong commitment to securing fair compensation and meaningful AI protections in the industry.
The strike authorization vote, a first in the Guild’s 33-year history, sends a clear message to producers that the writers are prepared to defend themselves if necessary. The issues at the heart of the negotiations include AI, compensation (especially for animation writers), and minimum participation levels. Notably, the CMPA does not represent streamers and Canadian networks, which means residuals are off the table, adding to the complexity of the discussions.
In response to the strike authorization, the CMPA remains at the table and is committed to a negotiated settlement with the WGC. Sean Porter, Vice-President of National Industrial Relations and Counsel at CMPA, emphasized the value of Canadian screenwriters’ work and expressed the belief that future Canadian projects should be written by humans, not AI algorithms. Both parties recognize the potential damage a labor dispute could cause to the domestic Canadian film and television production sector and are focused on reaching a successful conclusion to the negotiations.
The authorization of a strike comes after months of negotiations aimed at renewing the existing Independent Production Agreement (IPA). There have been concerns about the possibility of a strike as producers and writers struggled to find common ground on major financial and work-related issues. If a strike is called, the government would be informed, and action would begin 15 days later, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
Various industry organizations, including the Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists, the Directors Guild of Canada, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, and the media technicians union NABET 700-M UNIFOR, have been supporting the WGC in the negotiations. This solidarity reinforces the writers’ position and adds strength to their ongoing efforts to secure a fair agreement.
The decision to authorize strike action by the Writers Guild of Canada marks a pivotal moment for Canadian screenwriters in their quest for fair compensation and protection of AI rights. As negotiations continue between the WGC and the CMPA, the outcome will have far-reaching implications for the industry. Both parties must work diligently to find common ground and reach a mutually beneficial agreement to avoid the potentially damaging effects of a labor dispute. It is essential for all involved to prioritize the interests of the writers and ensure a sustainable future for Canadian screenwriters.