Canadian actors reach deal with producers

The union representing Canadian actors said Tuesday that it had reached a tentative deal with North American producers, ending a six-week strike that affected 21,000 workers.

The agreement between the producers and the Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists provides a 9% increase in pay over three years. It also establishes pay formulas for performances that are viewed over the Internet.

The strike’s effect was mitigated when the union allowed producers to sign agreements to keep working. But it was closely watched in Hollywood because Internet viewing is expected to be a top issue in upcoming talks with the Writers Guild of America and the Screen Actors Guild.

The agreement, which must be ratified, was nearly derailed by concerns among major studios that the terms on new media pay could set a precedent for their Hollywood negotiations. In a compromise, the Canadian union agreed to restrict the Internet pay terms to Canadian- produced shows.

“We welcome U.S.-financed production in Canada and we’re going to do the best we can to satisfy the needs of our membership and the production realities of U.S. studios,” alliance negotiator Stephen Waddell said.

Producers’ representatives could not be reached for comment.

richard.verrier@latimes.com