WINNIPEG, MB – Workers at Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art have voted unanimously for IATSE representation. Discussions between the workers and IATSE Local 63 began in December and support for representation built quickly. The application for certification was filed with the Manitoba Labour Relations Board on January 15 and the representation vote took place the following week. Following an objection from the employer concerning the inclusion of the position of Operations Manager, the ballot box was sealed. Hearings were held February 23 and April 8, and the workers awaited the Labour Board’s decision. On May 17, the ballot box was unsealed and a vote count revealed unanimous support for union representation. The Board issued the formal decision on May 22, awarding IATSE Local 63 jurisdiction to represent all Plug In ICA workers.
Located in the Buhler Centre in downtown Winnipeg, Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art was established in 1972. It is Canada’s oldest ICA and has a holistic mandate to support all aspects of art-making by presenting, producing and circulating contemporary art through research, exhibitions, publications, education, outreach and advocacy.
“We are pleased to expand our footprint in the entertainment industry and to welcome these workers into the IATSE,” said IATSE Local 63 Secretary-Business Agent Stu Aikman. The parties expect to start scheduling negotiations shortly. The new Local 63 members are thrilled to have union representation as they continue to perform this meaningful work, and look forward to working under their first collective agreement.
For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Krista Hurdon, IATSE International Representative
khurdon@iatse.net