Negotiations between ACTRA and groups representing Canada’s ad agencies have led to a tentative agreement governing the production of English-language commercials in Canada.

The new national commercial agreement — which follows 25 intense bargaining sessions since January — includes provisions for new media, large-cast productions and enhanced compliance measures with the Association of Canadian Advertisers and the Institute of Communication Agencies.

‘There are some give-and-takes from both sides,’ says Stephen Waddell, national executive director of ACTRA. ‘It’s an equitable settlement, it’s a good deal and a good compromise. We didn’t get everything we wanted and [the ACA/ICA] didn’t get everything it wanted, but sometimes that’s the best agreement.’

The new agreement also provides further work opportunities for performers in the area of new media, with more flexibility, increased performance rates and shorter work days, down to eight hours from nine.

ACTRA members will vote on the terms of the new agreement in a mailed referendum ballot on Nov. 26, with the new rates and terms going into effect by early December.

From Media in Canada