PLEASE GO TO OUR NEW WEBSITE: www.CFUnion.caCEP FORMS NEW
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| The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada, the country's
largest media union with 25,000 members who work in print, radio, television,
film, design and new media, has decided to utilize its
resources to create a strong collective voice for media freelancers and other
independent communication professionals — to improve their income, benefits and
working conditions. We believe that uniting everyone who works in Canada's media
— employee or independent contractor — will be good for everyone. In addition,
the development of an independent media sector, in which people can earn a
decent living, will allow more viewpoints to be expressed, energizing our
democracy. |
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The Life of a Media Freelancer Independent contracting is a way of life for many people working in the Canadian media and communication industries -- sometimes a difficult way to earn a living. While many freelancers would prefer a steady job other journalists and communication professionals choose to be self-employed contractors. We value our independence from a single employer as we try to build a vibrant autonomous sector in our media and communications industries. |
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Frustration and Uncertainty The
reality of working as an independent contractor in Canada's media and
communications industry is often one of frustration and uncertainty.
While many organizations rely on our expertise and creativity the
payment is often not commensurate with our effort. Because the
bargaining power of a single individual does not match that of a
corporation or government our only realistic choice is inevitably to
accept what is offered. |
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Bargaining Power An effective union for Canadian freelance journalists and communication professionals must have legal standing under federal and/or provincial law and sufficient bargaining power to negotiate minimum payments for work contracted by media, government, corporate, union and non-profit employers. This will require lobbying government to change legislation. To build this union we invite everyone who works as an independent contractor in the Canadian media and communication industries to join. |
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What Can a Union Do? As well as negotiate decent minimum rates, the union will establish benefit plans and bargain copyright provisions that protect the interests of our members. It will represent members in "grievances' and lobby governments. It will provide ongoing professional training and advice. It will promote strong ethical and professional standards. It will offer press cards to its journalist members. The CFU will advertise members' skills and act as a buying agent for everything from supplies to hotel rooms to obtain best prices |
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Who can join? Anyone who works as a journalist or communications professional on a service-for-fee basis (independent contractor) in the Canadian news media, government or other sector is a potential member. This will include (but not be limited to) print and broadcast reporters, writers, producers, editors, columnists, commentators, artists, designers, web designers, technicians, technical support staff, researchers, information officers and public relations practitioners. |
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Why Join? One good reason to join the Canadian Freelance Union is a desire to improve income levels and conditions among self-employed contractors working in the media and public relations sectors in Canada. Only a union can do that through collective bargaining. As well, our goal is to offer benefit packages, a virtual hiring hall, a press card, professional development and the opportunity to network with people working in the industry. By joining now you will have the opportunity to participate in building a new organization. |
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Building a Union Building an effective union for Canadian freelance journalists and communication professionals will take time and resources. The CEP, Canada's Media Union, has committed its resources to this project, but this will not work unless a large, active membership is attracted to the idea. We have a plan, but it requires hundreds of members to spend a little of their time talking, writing, creating and organizing. The only way our plan will come to fruition is if you want it to work. |
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