Vancouver: As part of the Motion Picture Production Industry Association of B.C.’s examination of the province’s production slump, the association reviewed the numbers and – according to Cheryl Nex, EVP at Entertainment Partners Canada – volumes in 2004 declined 32.4% in annual before-tax payroll from 2003. That translates into a drop of $100 million in payroll or 2,000 people who worked in 2003 but have not worked a single day in 2004.

By sector, Union of BC Performers members are down 25.7% in payroll in 2004 (to about $40 million), Directors Guild of Canada members are also down 25.7% (to about $25 million), and technicians are down 39.9% (to about $150 million). The number of people employed is down 14.4% (to about 14,500) in 2004.

Private businesses that service the B.C. film industry are down on average 25%. Attributed layoffs average 20% of total staff, while other suppliers are operating at four days per work week.

* Hotel business -20%

* Furniture Rentals -35%

* Office supplies -20%

* Copiers rental -25%

* Lighting & grip -42%

* Post lab and FX -30%

* Post sound -25%

* Car rentals -25%

* Studio rentals -20%

* Signage, glass, props -10%

Source: Motion Picture Production Industry Association of B.C.