TORONTO, ON – Props builders and buyers at the Canadian Opera Company are now being represented by IATSE Local 828. After much discussion with employees of the COC’s prop shop, Local 828 filed for certification with the Ontario Labour Relations Board on October 16. The Board ordered an employee vote to take place on October 23. A ballot count revealed that the majority of the prop shop employees supported representation by Local 828.
The process was a smooth one, with the employer raising no objections. The Canadian Opera Company has a longstanding relationship with IATSE, as its stagehands are under agreement with IATSE Local 58, and its hair, makeup, and wardrobe employees are represented by IATSE Local 822. Local 828 itself already has an agreement with the COC, which covers the opera’s scenic artists.
On October 31, the Labour Board issued a certificate to Local 828, designating it as the sole bargaining agent for prop builders and buyers employed by the company. The local will begin negotiations soon to cover prop shop employees, who are looking forward to working under their first collective agreement. The IATSE welcomes the new members brought in through this organizing campaign, and continues to support the organizing efforts of our locals.