HomeLatest NewsWGC members ratify new Independent Production...

WGC members ratify new Independent Production Agreement

Writers Guild of Canada (WGC) members have ratified a new Independent Production Agreement (IPA).

Set to take effect today (May 22), the agreement governs English-language writers, story editors and story consultants through January 2027.

Under the newly-ratified agreement, live action script fees will increase by five per cent, four per cent, and 3.5 per cent over the next three years. Animation script fees will increase by five per cent, 11.5 per cent, and 3.6 per cent over the same period.

WGC members also won minimum staffing provisions on set that will require two Story Editors to be engaged during the bulk of principal photography on productions commencing on or after January 1, 2025, for one-hour productions with budgets over $2.5M per episode and half-hour productions with budgets over $1.5M per episode.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) protections, which had been a major area of writer concern during discussions, were also negotiated, requiring producers to disclose and contract under the IPA when providing writers with AI-generated materials, as well as no reduction in existing writer credit or compensation. Further protections against discrimination and harassment in the workplace were also negotiated.

“We are pleased to have negotiated meaningful protections and fee increases for our members,” said WGC Executive Director Victoria Shen, in a release. “These achievements would not have been possible without the solidarity demonstrated by our membership. Special thanks to the Negotiating Committee, who volunteered months of their time, passionately represented the interests of screenwriters, and stood their ground to reach this deal.”

“Bargaining this agreement was extremely challenging but it has resulted in a more united and engaged membership,” added Bruce Smith, President of the WGC. “Our work will continue on many fronts, including fighting for equal compensation and protections for animation writers, advocating for a better funding system to address the needs of feature film writers, and ensuring our industry can flourish.”


Subscribe Now – Free!

Broadcast Dialogue has been required reading in the Canadian broadcast media for 30 years. When you subscribe, you join a community of connected professionals from media and broadcast related sectors from across the country.

The Weekly Briefing from Broadcast Dialogue is delivered exclusively to subscribers by email every Thursday. It’s your link to critical industry news, timely people moves, and excellent career advancement opportunities.

Let’s get started right now.

* indicates required

 

SUBSCRIBE NOW - IT'S FREE!

At Broadcast Dialogue®, we are committed to delivering industry-leading insights, news, and analysis directly to your inbox—completely free of charge.

By providing full / accurate information, you are helping us sustain Broadcast Dialogue® as a free resource. In return, we commit to delivering high-quality content that keeps you informed on the latest trends, technology, and news shaping the broadcast landscape—at no cost to you.

The Weekly Briefing from Broadcast Dialogue® is delivered exclusively to our subscribers by email every Thursday.
Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

Your Subscription Information

Your Name
Your Email Address
Broadcast Dialogue uses this information to understand our audience and deliver relevant content.
Broadcast Dialogue uses this information to understand our audience and deliver relevant content.

Your Company Information

A Couple Of Questions

Do you consider yourself retired?
Are you seeking employment opportunities?

Connie Thiessen
Connie Thiessenhttps://broadcastdialogue.com
Connie has worked coast-to-coast as a reporter, editor, anchor and host at CKNW and News 1130 in Vancouver, News 95.7 and CBC in Halifax, and CFCW Edmonton, among other stations. With a passion for music, film and community service, she led News 95.7 to a 2013 Atlantic Journalism Award and regional RTDNA award for Best Radio Newscast. More recently, she was nominated for Music Journalist of the Year at Canadian Music Week 2019. To report a typo or error please email - [email protected]

Latest News

Broadcast Dialogue – The Podcast: Ronit Novak of The Grain on the rise of AI and creator value

Creative professionals, including those of us in media, have become accustomed to hearing that our jobs may soon be replaced by artificial intelligence. Ronit Novak's...

iHeartRadio Canada launches Bryan Adams streaming channel

iHeartRadio Canada has launched Bryan Adams Radio, a dedicated streaming channel hosted by the one-time Grammy and 20-time JUNO Award winner. Available 24/7 on the iHeartRadio...

Events / Conferences