MONTRÉAL, QC – On April 24, 2014, IATSE Local 56 filed for certification with the Quebec Labour Board for representational rights of the employees of Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal. The certification covers the touring crew, which consists of five technicians. The employer contested the certification for two reasons. First, that the touring staff were all independent contractors and second, that if the labour board deemed the workers to be employees, they would be the employees of the venues where the company performs and not employees of the company itself. Local 56 was able to produce ample jurisprudence at the Labour Board hearing and through conciliatory discussions, the employer dropped its contestation. The local was awarded bargaining rights on June 3, 2014.
Formed over 40 years ago, Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal is an internationally renowned repertory company that presents a hybrid form of dance, combining the aesthetics of classical ballet with many other different styles and forms of dance. The new Local 56 members look forward to a productive relationship with BJM and are excited at the prospect of working under a collective agreement.