hi Ben - actually I went down and addressed the crowd. Some people appreciated that. What we didnt want was an ill informed group confronting the Equity members that wanted to come and discuss up coming negotiations - sensible I think as it turned out. Cheap hit on unions re confrontation.

Where to start Russel?? Equity dont need to change the law here. They are seeking standard commercial agreements to be offered to performers. Apart from the view that this is lawful under the Commerce Act, the Trade Union Act 1908 certainly allows it. The Pink Book is legal but production company agreements arent??

On the boycott/bombshell. Equity has tried with a number of production companies to negotiate the terms and conditions for performers. They have all resisted with extrememly agressive responses. Tried to talk to the Hobbit as well. Turns out the Hobbit was no different except we had an amazing display of international solidarity - performers around the world that enjoy union representation and negotiations (Warners are in a 6 week negotiation with SAG as we speak), extended their solidarity to NZ performers to enjoy the same. Those foreign actors contracted to the Hobbit will be on union negotiated contracts and will be union members - luxury!

MEAA are a Trans Tasman union - it is ok for companies to be Trans Tasman but not unions? Many performers work on both sides of the Tasman. Instead of joining two unions (like many actors have to do in the USA - 3,4,5 unions) our actors can join one - brilliant.

The Pink Book has been mainly honoured in the breach. We have numerous examples, some not too far from this movie, that do not comply - the discussions with SPADA will be on content and form - not only what, but how! To be enduring - it will need to have the how.

Why is it risky for Warners to be in a country that values worker rights? They operate in US, Canada, Oz, UK - they are all unionised and have vibrant film industries. What is your alternative for NZ performers (or workers generally for that matter).

We were hassled last night. I tried to talk to the crowd - some people were great and some have contacted me today to apologise for those that were abusive. Read the facebook suggestions that people go and do harm to Robyn and Simon and even to go down to Matterhorn last night where they were jostled and shoved. I have had to google some of the names I have been called today - one theme - all sexist and many sexually violent. Lynch mob?

Apparently the banners "lift the boycott" were ready and printed for the impromptu protest last night. Some addressing the meeting new the boycott had been lifted. I have emails from Warners dated Monday I can show you if you would like to come and see them (they are confidential - but I can show you in person).

Damaged the union movement - only if people like you dont check your facts.

Helen

Media advisory re The Hobbit
 
Helen Kelly, CTU President has met with Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh and we are hopeful that a meaningful dialogue between Equity, SPADA, and Three Foot Seven can be established.
 
Ends.

Media advisory re The Hobbit
 
Helen Kelly, CTU President has met with Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh and we are hopeful that a meaningful dialogue between Equity, SPADA, and Three Foot Seven can be established.
 
Ends.