Editor

The threats are high upon the Cannes Festival protocole. Jobless and part-time, entertainment french workers are threatening to jeopardize the Festival opening.
The Festival and the minister of Culture issued a joint statement.

The Board of Directors of the Festival de Cannes recently voiced its attachment to cultural diversity, a central part of the very purpose of the event since its creation, and to the French system of social benefits in place for jobbing entertainment industry professionals, which is one of the ways in which this diversity is expressed. The management of the Festival also wishes to do everything in its power so that the 57th Festival can take place in the very best of conditions.

Mr. Renaud Donnedieu de Vabres, the French Minister for Culture, outlined to the press on Wednesday 5th May concrete proposals that bear witness to his intention of finding solutions to resolves the current conflict with jobbing professionals. The measures he has proposed would seem to be a positive contribution to the debate. The Minister is proving his willingness by holding meetings with each industry union in turn, in order to further the discussion and build upon the progress already made.

The President and General Manager of the Festival would like to find, with the help of the organisations representing jobbing entertainment industry professionals, suitable ways in which this matter might be expressed during the Festival in such a way that it does not disturb the running of the Festival or the reception of the film crews invited.

The Festival is a very special occasion that hosts and promotes artists and film works from all over the world: it counts on the support of everyone involved in the French film industry to help it protect and strengthen the important role it plays as a symbol of cultural diversity and an opening onto the world.