Summary of the Botanique Working Conditions Dispute
This article details a dispute at the Botanique cultural center in Brussels regarding the working conditions adn pay for freelance technicians and photographers. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
The Core Issue: Botanique issued a public tender for technical staff, setting a standard daily rate of €330 gross, regardless of experience or invoicing method (direct, via Smart cooperative, or through agencies). This has sparked protest from existing freelancers who fear it will drive down rates and undervalue their experience.
Key Concerns of Technicians (Lighting, Sound, Stage):
* Lowered Rates: Experienced technicians worry the fixed rate will force them to compete with less experienced colleagues willing to work for less.
* Blocked from Work: Some technicians report being effectively blocked from working at Botanique via the Smart platform.
* Long Hours: The €330 daily rate frequently enough requires working days exceeding 10 hours.
* Tax/Contribution Deductions: The gross rate doesn’t account for taxes or employer contributions, reducing take-home pay.
* Comparison to Other Venues: Technicians believe other Brussels venues (Ancienne Belgique, Flagey, Espace Magh) offer better compensation.
Concerns of Photographers:
* No Financial Compensation: Photographers receive only drink vouchers and a meal per concert, despite Botanique using their photos.
* Copyright Concerns: They relinquish partial copyright when Botanique uses their images.
Botanique’s Response (via spokesperson Filip De Groote):
* Public Tender requirement: The tender was mandated by the French Community as a subsidized institution.
* Competitive Rate: The €330 rate is 10% higher than other cultural centers in the French Community and 32% higher than the 2021 average.
* Negotiation Possible: Experienced freelancers can propose rates above the €330 target.
* Budgetary Constraints: Paying photographers is a budgetary issue; they receive exposure and networking opportunities instead. Botanique doesn’t require exclusive rights to photos.
* Dissatisfied Employees: The petition stems from a desire for a 66% pay increase over four years, which is unsustainable.
Overall: The dispute highlights a tension between budgetary constraints, the need for fair compensation for cultural workers, and the value placed on experience within the freelance sector. The petition reflects a broader concern about the “businessification” of culture and the potential exploitation of creative professionals.
