The DGC Ontario Collective Agreement: A Comprehensive Overview
The Directors Guild of Canada (DGC) is a union representing more than 4,800 professionals working in the screen-based industries, including directors, assistant directors, production managers, and location managers. The DGC Ontario Collective Agreement is an important document that outlines the terms and conditions of employment for these professionals who work in the film and television industry in Ontario, Canada. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the agreement.
The Purpose of the DGC Ontario Collective Agreement
The purpose of the DGC Ontario Collective Agreement is to protect the rights of workers in the film and television industry in Ontario. The agreement outlines the minimum standards for wages, hours of work, and working conditions, as well as providing guidelines for health and safety in the workplace.
Scope of the Agreement
The agreement applies to all productions that are produced, co-produced, or licensed by a signatory producer in Ontario. A signatory producer is one who has signed a collective agreement with the DGC. The agreement covers a wide range of productions, including feature films, television series, commercials, and documentaries.
Wages and Hours of Work
The DGC Ontario Collective Agreement sets out minimum rates of pay for all members, which vary depending on the position held. The rates of pay are reviewed and adjusted annually. The agreement also specifies the maximum hours of work in a day and week, as well as overtime rates.
Working Conditions
The agreement outlines the working conditions for members, such as restrictions on working in extreme weather conditions and minimum rest periods between shifts. The agreement also addresses issues such as meals and transportation.
Health and Safety
The DGC Ontario Collective Agreement includes a comprehensive health and safety program designed to protect members working in the film and television industry. This program includes guidelines for working in hazardous areas, as well as training and education programs for members.
Grievance Procedure
The agreement provides a grievance procedure for members who feel that their rights have been violated. The procedure includes an informal discussion with the employer, followed by a formal grievance if necessary. The grievance procedure aims to resolve disputes between members and employers in a timely and effective manner.
Conclusion
The DGC Ontario Collective Agreement is an important document that protects the rights of workers in the film and television industry in Ontario. It outlines the minimum standards for wages, hours of work, and working conditions, as well as providing guidelines for health and safety in the workplace. The agreement provides a comprehensive framework for the employment of members in the film and television industry, and ensures that they are treated fairly and with respect.
