After the film industry was eviscerated by the Saskatchewan party and Brad Wall nearly a decade ago. There is some promise that new seeds may be planted in the province.
Creative Saskatchewan is now accepting applications for film and television productions in the province – this just a few weeks after the government announced an influx of money for productions in the province. The Provincial coffers opened up for film production to the tune of an 8 million dollar increase. Bringing available funds for feature picture production to nearly 10 million dollars.
Megan Jane – the manager of marketing and communications for Creative Saskatchewan says there are brighter days head for the industry.
“This is very exciting. It’s a great step towards kickstarting film and television production in this province. The ripple effects from that will be felt for years to come. Saskatchewan producers now have new opportunities. ” Jane continues that industry employs a variety of skilled trades people and artisans – all of which will be contributing to the local economy.
The new stream of money will bring close to 8 Million dollars into the industry – allowing more film and television projects to be shot in the province.
“This is an appropriate response and a great first stop. An 8 million dollar increase is huge.”
When the film tax credit was removed by the Saskatchewan party – a number of skilled film makers and artisans left the province – leaving a void that now needs to be filled – with staffing and skilled persons being a major challenge.
” We have to roll out programing we can deliver on in the short term.” says Jane, “we’ve just partnered with the national screen institute of Canada – to create a specialized training program to prepare film and television crews so we can get going, ” Jane shared with CKRM Source news.
“This is a crucial first step to get the industry where it needs to be in this province, the future is very bright.”
The Creative Saskatchewan website has information regarding the new criteria, incentives, and caps. Creative Saskatchewan is accepting applications starting today – the application can be found here.
