If you are an “independent media worker”, which is a terrible, politically-correct-sounding phrase, then this may be of interest.
The Canadian Freelance Union (CFU) (CEP Local 2040) is starting up with the support of the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union (CEP).
The CFU is a child of the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union. The CEP is one of Canada’s largest unions, with over 160,000 members across the country. The CEP is also Canada’s largest media union, with over 25,000 workers already part of the organization. It is this existing strength that the CFU hopes to build on.
There are some freelance unions in Europe. In Canada, there is the Canadian Media Guild (CMG) which includes CBC freelancers. The CMG has negotiated freelance issues into the CBC collective agreement.
While I think the CFU will be accepted by a couple of larger media outlets, in these economic times, I wonder if this will be a case of too little, too late.
Had this union started 20 years ago, when times were good, then it would be in a good position today. It’s always a tough slog trying to build a shelter during the storm.
