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AFTRA to SAG: Start Talking, or We're Walking
AFTRA is upping the pressure on the Screen Actors Guild to begin contract negotiations by the end of March — or they'll begin their own talks, according to Variety.
In a statement last week, SAG leaders said they didn't plan to start talks until at least April, when all their fact-finding was done and they were good and ready. Contracts for both unions expire June 30. Days later, however, AFTRA prez Roberta Reardon sent a letter to SAG chief Alan Rosenberg asking that the guild begin talks on AFTRA's timeline — or they can negotiate on their own. As it is, the two unions only recently reestablished ties, a move that was widely seen as preparation for upcoming contract negotiations. The relationship is still fragile, hanging as it is on various quid pro quos that each union set up.
In her letter, Reardon was clear about her timetable saying, "Time is of the essence now, and AFTRA can no longer let its members be idle when such important matters are before us."
SAG's response in the next week should indicate the tenor of things to come. Reardon asked for an answer by Monday, while SAG announced Tuesday that it's open to interim deals with feature producers on a case-by-case basis — similar to the WGA's strike-time approach. If SAG doesn't step up to Reardon's request, how would separate negotiations affect things, if it comes to that? Do you think it would harm or help actors' interests to have the unions negotiate independently? — Anna Dimond
Related:
• SAG Preps for Talks, But Not Ruling Out a Strike
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Mar 4, 2008 10:10 PM
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If the two unions can't bargain together,it would give the advantage to the AMPTP,which would not be good for either union. SAG is already offering interim deals to feature producers,which I think will lessen their bargaining power because if there is a strike,many actors will still be working under the interim agreements. Bottom line,the two unions should stick together-it's the only way they can get the contract they deserve.
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Mar 7, 2008 8:31 AM
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