The UBCP Agreement 2020: What You Need to Know
The Union of British Columbia Performers (UBCP) is a union representing performers in film, television, radio, and new media in British Columbia, Canada. The UBCP recently negotiated a new agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) for the period of October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2023. This new agreement has several significant changes that performers should be aware of.
Firstly, the UBCP Agreement 2020 includes a 10% increase in minimum rates for performers, effective October 1, 2020. This is a welcome change for performers who have been struggling with stagnant wages in recent years.
In addition to the wage increase, the UBCP Agreement 2020 also includes changes to working conditions for performers. One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a new “Courtesy Break” provision, which gives performers a 10-minute break every three hours on set. This provision is aimed at improving the well-being and safety of performers, who often work long hours without breaks.
The UBCP Agreement 2020 also includes a provision for “Intimacy Coordinators,” which are professionals trained in ensuring that scenes with physical intimacy are handled appropriately and safely. This is a significant change for the industry, as many performers have spoken out about feeling uncomfortable or unsafe in intimate scenes in the past.
Another change included in the UBCP Agreement 2020 is the introduction of a “Background Performer Coordinator” role. This role is responsible for overseeing the safety and well-being of background performers on set, including ensuring that they are provided with adequate rest breaks and access to facilities.
Finally, the UBCP Agreement 2020 includes a new “Diversity and Inclusion” provision, which requires productions to consider diversity and inclusivity in casting decisions. This provision is aimed at promoting a more diverse and inclusive industry, and is a positive step towards greater representation in film and television.
In conclusion, the UBCP Agreement 2020 is a significant change for performers in British Columbia. The new agreement includes important provisions for improving working conditions and promoting diversity and inclusivity in the industry. As the industry continues to evolve, it is important for unions like the UBCP to advocate for the rights and well-being of performers.