This Saturday marks the deadline for the Saskatchewan Film Employment Tax Credit after the government announced its elimination in the last provincial budget.
The Saskatchewan Media Production Industry Association (SMPIA) says it’s the end of the vibrant and successful Saskatchewan film industry as we know it.
In May, the government announced a new program, which will offer 25 per cent non-refundable credit on production expenses to recognize the extra cost of buying and using goods in Saskatchewan.
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“Despite our best efforts, the government has continued to proceed with a non-refundable program that has proven to be ineffective in the few jurisdictions that have actually pursued such a model,” said SMPIA President Ron Goetz.
Goetz says in the coming days, film industry workers will be faced with difficult choices as they decide whether to relocate their businesses and families outside of the province, or stay.
“Many, myself included, have already decided that the only way to secure a viable future in the industry is to leave the province. Others will remain. We wish them the best, and hope that the government will one-day reverse its decision.”
SMPIA plans to host a public celebration to commemorate the Saskatchewan film and television industry’s past achievements.
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