TORONTO, ON – IATSE Local 58 has done it again – this time at the Harbourfront Centre, bringing the last of the stages into the Local 58 family. The Local had made attempts to represent technicians at different Harbourfront Centre venues in past, with mixed results. This left some of the Centre’s stagehands with union representation and some without.
In February, those stagehands not already under Local 58 agreement approached the Local to discuss possible representation. Discussions went well, and the application for certification was filed with the Ontario Labour Relations Board on May 8. The vote was held on May 15, with an overwhelming majority voting for representation. The certification was issued by the Labour Board on May 29, and the result is that all stages at the Harbourfront Centre will now be staffed by IATSE Local 58 members.
The Harbourfront Centre, a 10-acre area located on Toronto’s waterfront, is an innovative not-for-profit cultural organization that creates diverse events and activities to educate and entertain. Among many other things, the vast space includes three marinas, restaurants, an outdoor rink, and even the Amsterdam craft brewery. IATSE Local 58 will now be representing technicians at all five of the Harbourfront Centre’s stages – the Concert Stage, Stage in the Round, Brigantine Room, Studio Theatre and the Lakeside Terrace. Negotiations will begin shortly. The technicians are enjoying the safe harbour provided by union representation, and are looking forward to working in this dynamic space under their first collective agreement.