HGI Code of Practice
Introduction
HGI recognises membership is a valuable asset. A core aim of the Guild is to preserve high standards and our consequent reputation for professional expertise and integrity. Our Guild Logo identifies those who provide and maintain high standards of skill and quality of service. As well as giving reassurance to both employers and suppliers, it places an obligation on new members to live up to these same standards. Compliance with the Code of Practice is mandatory for all members of HGI. In addition to complying with the Guild’s Code of Practice, members are asked to carry out their business in the spirit of the Guild; demonstrating experience, honesty, fairness, transparency, enthusiasm, and helpfulness.
Statement of Integrity
HGI strives to maintain and uphold the highest standards of integrity. We aspire to promote and enhance the Guild’s reputation, its standing, and good name through best workplace practices and professional conduct.
Terms of Membership
Members must have at least two full credits on feature films or TV drama productions* in the grade for which they are listed. Members shall seek to maintain and preserve the highest standards of HGI. Members of HGI will not behave in any way which would bring the Guild or any of its members into disrepute. Any member who allows their standards to fall, resulting in a verified complaint, may have their membership suspended or revoked in accordance with our Membership codes of practice. Members should not make any statement, whether orally or in writing, to the media, representing such statement as Guild policy, unless expressly authorized to do so by HGI. Members shall pay a subscription to the Guild which shall become due and payable immediately upon joining. Members must ensure their profile listing is up to date and accurate.
Use of the HGI Logo
Members of the Guild are encouraged to display the HGI logo on their business stationery, website, and email signature. The logo must not be used by any non-members or in any capacity other than directly for business purposes. If a person ceases to be a member or their membership is suspended or revoked in accordance with our Membership codes of practice, their right to display and use the logo shall cease.
Transparency & Conflict of Interest
HGI promotes transparency and asks its Members to avoid any conflicts of interest and actions that may appear to promote or favor their own personal gain or might not be in the best interest of the employing Production Company.
Management
HGI is committed to equality of opportunity and inclusiveness. We promote, value, and respect diversity. Members of the Guild are asked to recognize and respect the rights of our members to work in environments free from discrimination, victimization, harassment, and bullying.
Confidentiality
HGI requests its members acknowledge that Guild business and information shared with its members is confidential and for the benefit of Guild members only.
Complaints
If a complaint is being made against a Guild member:
A letter detailing the complaint must be sent to The Chair of the Committee of HGI. The Committee shall determine whether the complaint is a violation of HGI’s Code of Practice or Terms of Membership. The Chair of the Committee will attempt to resolve the matter within fourteen days upon receipt of the Letter of Complaint. If it is found there has been a violation, disciplinary action may be taken – such action may include revoking or suspending membership to HGI. If a resolution cannot be reached, the complaint will be referred to Members of HGI, where a majority vote will determine the outcome.
Membership Criteria
To become a member of HGI, a standard of competence and expertise coupled with experience in the Film & TV industry is required. Applicants must warrant they can perform the services as required for the grade within which they are applying to be represented; having at least two substantiated credits on feature films or TV drama productions* within that grade. These credits should be on complete productions* which demonstrate a range of skills and experiences.
(*qualifying productions are those Feature Films with budgets of more than €750,000 or TV series or serials with budgets of €250,000 per hour.)
If a member does not work on the whole length of a production, they must specify so in their application, outlining the period of their involvement or make use of the term “dailies”. Applications must be supported by a minimum of two named referees. These must be people with whom you have worked directly on three complete and separate productions within the last three years. At least one referee must be an existing member of HGI with whom you have worked at the grade for which membership is sought. Prior to submitting an application, named referees must be contacted by the applicant to ensure they are aware of the process involved.
An Application Form can be found here.
Membership is contingent on having worked within the department within the last 5 years. Fellow membership is also extended to those who have retired from the Industry. HGI members must become familiar with and abide by the 2020 film agreement, the comprehensive agreement for the feature film (TV & Cinema) and television drama industry in Ireland. HGI members agree to abide by our grading system and competency framework. If looking to work outside of your grade (Please refer to the grading document). A temporary upgrade can only occur if there is no one available at that particular grade at the time of hiring and is only applicable for that particular production. An application form must be emailed to and approved by the guild based on the competency framework. HGI members will not cross over into the hair department. Membership can be withdrawn at any time if a member is deemed to have violated the HGI Code of Practice.