SAG-AFTRA’s Duncan Crabtree-Ireland Acknowledges “Significant Economic Consequences” Of Strikes Around The World As He Addresses Hundreds Of Union Members In The UK
21.08.2023 - 19:29
/ deadline.com
SAG-AFTRA’s Duncan Crabtree-Ireland has acknowledged “significant economic consequences” impacting workers around the world due to the strikes, while the boss of British Equity said his union is prepared to enter disputes if U.S. producers try to recast roles with UK actors.
Speaking on a webinar alongside Equity boss Paul Fleming and broadcasting union Bectu chiefs, Crabtree-Ireland said he recognizes that AMPTP members are “global businesses that have global presences around the world,” and that “members are hurting” outside the U.S.
But Crabtree-Ireland, SAG’s chief negotiator, laid the blame squarely at the AMPTP’s feet.
“The only reason these strikes are happening is these companies refuse to make fair and respectful deals with our members,” he declared. “There was no need for a strike and I have been told that by members of the public when they see what our proposals are and really understand what we are fighting for.”
The U.S./UK unions were addressing hundreds of UK members and industry press as the SAG strike enters its fifth week, while the writers strike has now lasted four months.
Crews in the UK have been heavily impacted by the action, with many working on U.S. shows or impacted by the streamer slowdown. Stringent UK labor laws do not permit them to join the strike action but many have lost work simply due to the U.S. shutdown. Projects to have halted production in the UK include the likes of Apple TV+’s Silo, Disney+’s Andor and Rami Malek-starring movie Amateur.
Nonetheless, Equity boss Paul Fleming pledged total solidarity to SAG’s cause.
He said: “Of course my members are upset. But you don’t get hacked off about 39 days of striking, you get hacked off about every day of your life being screwed