IATSE has signed a new contract that stands to make Canada more attractive for low-budget U.S. shoots and which, for the first time, gives equal pay and benefits to union members on both sides of the border.

The three-year Low Budget Theatrical Motion Picture Agreement took effect on Jan. 1 and follows two months of talks between the crew union and mini-majors including Lionsgate, Focus Features and Lakeshore Entertainment.

The deal ‘levels the playing field’ for IATSE members in Canada, who will now receive the same rates, benefits and working conditions as their U.S. counterparts, according to union spokesperson Katherine Orloff.

‘Even though they’re paid in Canadian dollars, the amount of pay will be the same,’ says Orloff.

The CFTPA was not at the bargaining table, but a spokesperson says the deal ‘will be useful to attract investments.’

‘We applaud that IA is turning its mind to low-budget productions,’ says Jeff Brinton. The deal applies to shoots of US$9 million or less, though the limit will go up 4.1% every year.

Over 300 movies are subject to the terms of the contract, which for the first time expands IA’s low-budget contract to Canada.

www.iatse-intl.org