NEW LEGISLATION INTRODUCED FOR ARTISTS

The province is proceeding with new legislation to provide self-employed professional artists access to collective bargaining mechanisms.

“We are committed to making life better for Saskatchewan artists and ensuring they secure viable careers in Saskatchewan,” Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Glenn Hagel said.  “This legislation provides artists with rights similar to those available to many other people in Saskatchewan.”

Saskatchewan is only the second jurisdiction in Canada to provide self-employed professional artists access to collective bargaining mechanisms and processes.

The legislation introduces a model of professional relations that lets artists decide when and under what circumstances to engage in collective bargaining.  The system will be regulated by the Saskatchewan Labour Relations Board and requires all engagers to enter into written contracts with professional artists, which provides a measure of security for artists.

“New legislation is only one element of government’s broader response to recommendations made by the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Status of the Artist,” Hagel said.  “We see this as a multi-year process, and legislative changes are only one step towards building a better future for artists here in Saskatchewan.

After considerable deliberation and consultation with artists and art organizations, the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Status of the Artist provided government with a comprehensive strategic plan to improve the living and working conditions of Saskatchewan artists.  The Committee’s recommendations supported three key goals including: creating an environment where artists are able to engage in viable careers; providing access to thriving markets for artists’ products and services; and providing access to information to support and enhance individual and collective efforts to achieve viable careers in Saskatchewan.

Anyone with questions regarding the detail of this new legislation, can receive more information by calling 306-526-9912.

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For more information, contact:

Janet Peters
Culture, Youth and Recreation
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4967
Email: jpeters@cyr.gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-533-4909