Workers in the film and television production industry across North America are demanding an end to the unsafe and unhealthy working conditions produced by extremely long working hours and extended work weeks.

The damage to our work force as a result of work weeks that routinely exceed 60 hours comes in the form of industry wide addiction problems, mental health issues and family and relationship breakdowns in addition to physical health issues associated with overwork and lack of sleep, including diabetes, obesity, heart disease and cancer.

These problems are real, and affect the daily lives of the men and women who are the backbone of the industry: grips, electrics, transport, special effects, sets and props, hair, makeup, wardrobe, camera, sound, locations, assistant directors, art department, production office staff, on screen and off performers, post production and all others who bring stories onto screen large and small.

We are tired of our jobs costing us our personal and physical health and well being. We are tired of losing our friends, our families, because of what we do. We are sick and tired of being sick and tired.

We need a new industry model that works on the concept of cooperation, not competition.

We call on all labour leaders across NORTH AMERICA to agree to limit a work day to 12 hours per day (including breaks) with 12 hours off - no exceptions.

Only in a framework of continental cooperation will be be able to break the threat of jurisdictional competition that degrades our working conditions and bargaining power. Together we must put working hours front and centre as a health and safety issue that threatens the very core of our industry.

United we can build positive change. The future of our industry, and each of our lives, depends on it.