The Alberta Motion Picture Industries Association (AMPIA) was disappointed to learn that the Alberta Film Development Program will be reduced by 15% to $17 million in the 2010-11 provincial budget announced February 9, 2010. While we recognize these are difficult economic times it is important to  remember that the government’s investment in television and film attracts five times its value in new outside money being spent in Alberta, that in turn creates taxpaying jobs which allows the government to recoup its initial investment. To this end AMPIA will continue to work with the Hon. Lindsay Blackett, Minister of Culture and Community Spirit and his staff to ensure that our industry continues to make the progress it has over recent years.

“I see this reduction as a temporary setback which reflects the entire provincial economy rather than the film, television and the creative industries,” said Melody Jacobson, Executive Director, AMPIA. “Our goals are to make sure our industry remains competitive, Alberta is a great place to do business, and we continue to stay at the forefront of production excellence in this country.”

Jacobson further stated that it is the people involved in the industry that will make the difference.  “We’ve seen more than our fair share of hardship over the past few years, and due to our resiliency, production is starting to come back.  It’s the talented people we have in this province that are key to our future success.”

AMPIA will continue to partner with other industry stakeholders to make sure Alberta is a province where film, television and digital productions thrive. AMPIA will continue to update you with new information as it comes available. We welcome hearing your thoughts and suggestions on issues in our industry. Please contact Melody Jacobson, Executive Director, at mjacobson@ampia.org