The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists began independent negotiations
with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers Wednesday, after rejecting
a new plea by the Screen Actors Guild to hold joint talks. In a message to AFTRA membe
rs -- a majority of whom belong to both unions -- AFTRA President Roberta Reardon
said that over the past 15 months "our once-positive relationship with SAG deteriorated,
making it impossible now to continue joint bargaining." In response to trade and Int
ernet critics who have accused AFTRA of becoming a lapdog for the industry, Reardon
said, "Make no mistake; we anticipate challenging negotiations as we work to secure
greater job opportunities and improved wages and working conditions."
08/05/2008
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