The instability generated over the past few weeks by the arrival of the International Alliance of Theatrical and Stage Employees (IATSE) on the production house behind the film "Jumper" has gotten the better of the latter's intention to shoot their film in Montreal and this, despite the fact that several weeks of work had already been invested in the preparation of this film project. In so doing, some 500 Quebec workers have suffered the loss of a major contract this winter. "The situation is quite simple: in an attempt to wrest control over part of Quebec's motion picture sector, the American organization has encroached upon the way things have normally been done, last 30 years, when foreign films are shot in the Province of Quebec and this, notwithstanding the Status of the Artist Act. Hence, faced with the prospect of this situation disrupting labour relations during the shoot, the producers have decided to retreat and to go shoot their film elsewhere", explained the interim President of the Alliance, Ms. Céline Daignault. "In view of the significant sums of money involved these days in motion picture productions, no producer wants his project to be embroiled in an interunion dispute. Accordingly, IATSE's arrival outside of the periods stipulated by this law creates confusion, disrupts industrial peace and has motivated the producers to pass up the opportunity to shoot their film in Montreal. " The resulting instability has paved the way for some 500 workers to lose one huge film contract", added Céline Daignault. In all, it's been estimated that the economic benefits from the "Jumper" shoot would have totalled about US$75 million that would have benefited not only Quebec technicians, but also the entire industry: actors, studios, postproduction houses, goods and services suppliers of all kinds throughout the region, including hotels, restaurants, the City of Montreal and even certain higher levels of Government.

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