B.C. producers and the American studios have inked a new three-year deal with the B.C. Council of Film Unions, giving film and TV employees in the province a 2% annual wage hike and increased producer contributions to union health programs. The council represents over 10,000 behind-the-scenes film and TV employees in the province through its member unions, which include IATSE Local 891, Teamsters Union Local No. 155 and IATSE Local 669.

Marcus Handman, business agent at IATSE Local 669, says the deal is a good one for his membership, particularly in light of the fiscal climate facing Canada and the U.S. ‘We are pleased that we made some gains, especially in respect to the current economic issues,’ he says. ‘The wage increase of 2% per year will allow members to keep up with inflation and perhaps even get ahead. And the health benefits were a critical issue.’