Previously, the DGA agreed with the DGC to provide an exception for DGA/DGC dual-card holders to choose work in Canada under the DGC Agreement, rather than the DGA Basic Agreement. However, as Canada became home to a thriving industry servicing U.S. production companies, this exemption became a source of increasing abuse. Producers found they could employ some DGA members without providing the benefits of the DGA Basic Agreement, such as residuals.
In the light of these abuses, after seeking the concurrence of the DGC in remedying this situation, and discussing this issue with DGA/DGC dual-card holders, DGA has opted to terminate this exemption as it applies to American residents working in Canada on “American productions.” “American Productions” are defined as productions made primarily for American networks or distributors. The Guild agreed to discuss with the DGC any disputes in particular cases about what constitutes an “American Production”, but the DGA will have the right to enforce the Constitutional obligation that requires members to work under a DGA agreement when performing services in DGA-covered categories.
The DGA will rely on a member’s designated production center (or in the absence of a designated production center, whatever residence address the member has provided) to determine residence for purposes of this provision.
Please feel free to call Western Executive Director Bryan Unger (310-289-5330) or DGA Associate National Executive Director Warren Adler (310-289-2003) with any questions about this policy. They particularly encourage members to call with questions about particular projects. If you have questions about your production center designation, please call the Guild's Membership Administrator, Paul Zepp at (310) 289-2077.
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