May 16, 2006 -

Ottawa (Canada) -- The National Arts Centre (NAC) and representatives of Local 180 of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM), representing the members of the National Arts Centre Orchestra, met today to review the issues arising out of the NAC's confidentiality policy. The NAC presented the rationale for the policy and has agreed to waive the requirement that musicians return a sign-off form. The Local's objections had been limited to the sign-off form.

"We understand that there is a body of information that is properly kept confidential, and the NACO musicians have no issue with that," said Francine Schutzman, President of the Local.

Jayne Watson, Director of Communications at the NAC, said, "We are pleased that the NAC and the Local have resolved this issue through some very productive face-to-face communication. NAC patrons and employees can remain confident that the NAC will continue to protect any private information entrusted to us."

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For the NAC:
Jayne Watson
Director of Communications, National Arts Centre
(613) 947-7000, ext. 260
(613) 791-5697 (cell)
jwatson@nac-cna.c

For the AFM:
Francine Schutzman
(613) 233-9891
(613) 797-9891 (cell)