AMPTP and WGA to Resume Negotiations

Last night the AMPTP and WGA issued a joint statement announcing that “Leaders from the WGA and the AMPTP have mutually agreed to resume formal negotiations on November 26.” Further information is not forthcoming, as both sides have agreed to a news blackout.

However, shortly after the announcement, WGA president Patric Verrone emailed members, calling the announcement “a direct result” of their efforts.

For 12 days I have repeated that a powerful strike means a short strike. … It is equally important that we now prove that good news won’t slow us down, either. We must remember that returning to the bargaining table is only a start. Our work is not done until we achieve a good contract and that is by no means assured. Accordingly, what we achieve in negotiations will be a direct result of how successfully we can keep up our determination and resolve.

Whether the resumption of talks is an indication of the two sides’ willingness to bring a speedy end to this dispute remains to be seen, but at least it’s a very welcome first step.