SAG-AFTRA chief negotiator to address UK crew as US dispute continues

UK film and TV workers will hear from SAG-AFTRA’s chief negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland in a webinar hosted by Bectu, the UK union for the creative industries.

Mr Crabtree-Ireland will be joined by Head of Bectu Philippa Childs, Bectu National Secretary Spencer MacDonald, and Equity General Secretary Paul W. Fleming.

Many UK crew are feeling the effects of the ongoing dispute between SAG-AFTRA and the AMPTP first-hand, as productions are suspended across the country.

Bectu members will hear directly from SAG-AFTRA about the issues at the centre of the dispute, why it’s a crucial fight for the global screen industries, and the latest prospects for a resumption of negotiations, and will also have the opportunity to ask questions of SAG-AFTRA.

The webinar will take place on Monday 21 August 2023 at 7pm.

Bectu members working in film and TV can contact [email protected] if they have not received their invite.

Head of Bectu Philippa Childs said:

“This is an incredibly challenging time for many of our members, and the whole UK film and TV industry. Much of the rhetoric surrounding the dispute is about the actors, but the impact on crew is severe and cannot be underestimated.

“We are committed to ensuring that the film and TV sector, and those who work in it, continue to thrive, and that includes taking a stand against unacceptable terms and conditions either in the UK or with our colleagues abroad.

“This is a fight with many of the same employers who frequently undervalue crew in the UK, and therefore our solidarity with US actors and writers is important for raising standards domestically and globally. We are pleased to welcome SAG-AFTRA to talk to our members about what their dispute means for film and TV workers across the globe.”

SAG-AFTRA chief negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland said:

“SAG-AFTRA’s strike is not just a fight for fairness for US performers. The issues in this negotiation resonate for workers in film and television worldwide.

“For far too long, media conglomerates have exploited creative workers around the world, holding down wages and refusing basic protections. But now actors, writers, and others are taking a stand and demanding fair and respectful treatment.

“These strikes are an important next step towards ensuring that the studios and streamers respect the creativity and hard work of everyone in this industry, including the crew without whom none of these corporations could even exist. Standing together in solidarity, we will win this fight!”