A provincial government decision to axe the film tax credit didn’t sit well with Saskatchewan film producers so maybe a new initiative is a step in the right direction to setting the situation right.

The province has announced details of a consultation process for the creative industries. The initiative is designed to gather ideas for the creation of a comprehensive strategy to advance the commercial objectives of the creative industries including the adoption of new and emerging digital technology.

“Through the consultations, we want to engage people and businesses in creative industries such as commercial music and sound recording, writing and publishing, craft and visual arts, film and multi-media including animators and game developers and theatre and dance businesses,” says Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Kevin Doherty said Consultations will start with the release of a discussion paper and key questions that can be found at www.pcs.gov.sk.ca/culture. Visitors to the website can read the discussion paper and leave their feedback.

As work on an industry-wide plan continues, the government says it is maintaining stable funding for culture. In the 2012-13 Budget Estimates, $29.176 million was allocated for culture.

Culture, film projects and the arts are big draws for the province and working with key partners in the industries will help to ensure we keep this part of our economy strong.