IATSE ends strike against Pac-12 Network

The union representing Hollywood’s film and television crew workers has ended its walkout against the Pac-12 Network.

Declaring a “victory” in a strike launched nearly two weeks ago, International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees President Matt Loeb called off pickets that had been scheduled this week at Pac-12 college basketball games, including those at UCLA and USC, and told members they were free to return to work.

The decision came after Pac-12 Network representatives agreed to hold negotiations with the union, which had previously alleged the network was engaged in “unfair” labor practices by using non-union crews, who are generally paid lower wages and don’t have benefits.

“PAC 12 Network has agreed to sit down and discuss all issues between the IATSE and the Network,” Sandra England, director of the broadcast department for IATSE, said in a letter to union members. “While these discussions are taking place, we have agreed to stop all picketing, have our folks return to work.”

Launched this summer, the network provides cable and satellite broadcasts of Pac-12 Conference teams’ sporting events, including football and women’s basketball. Protests have been staged at several sites, including at Arizona State University in Tempe; Oregon State University in Corvallis; the University of Oregon in Eugene and the University of Washington in Seattle.

“Earlier today we had a cordial conversation with IATSE,” said a statement from Pac-12 Enterprises. “As a showing of good faith, we have agreed to continue that conversation after the holidays, and IATSE has agreed to cease its strike, picketing and related activities. We will now focus on televising the games and events we deliver to our fans without interruption or interference.”

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