October 19, 2007

Statement from AMPTP President Nick Counter in response to the WGA strike authorization vote.

“A strike authorization vote is a pro forma tactic used by every union in the country and usually the vote is overwhelmingly in favor of a strike.  We are not surprised with the outcome of this vote, given reports of how this election was conducted.  Our focus is on negotiating a reasonable agreement with the WGA.”

Encino, CA – October. 16, 2007 – “In the overriding interest of keeping the industry working and removing what has become an emotional impediment and excuse by the WGA not to bargain, the AMPTP withdrew its recoupment proposal,” J. Nicholas Counter III, President, Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) announced today.

“By taking the recoupment formula off the table, we haven’t solved the problems that the formula was designed to ameliorate. But, as we have said repeatedly, we are committed to making a deal that is fair and reasonable.

“Upon removing the recoupment issue, we made it patently clear that the Producers will not agree to increase residual payments for videocassette/DVD use (including electronic sell-through), for reruns on The CW or My Network TV, or for programs made for pay television or basic cable.

“We now expect the WGA leadership to get down to the business at hand and do what it takes to reach a new labor agreement.”