TAC And Pact Move Towards Merger To Develop Independent Television Sector In Wales

TAC (Teledwyr Annibynnol Cymru/Welsh Independent Producers) and Pact, the trade bodies representing the interests of the independent television sector in Wales and UK respectively, have announced the approval of joint heads of agreement to move towards a formal merger, following the Pact Council meeting and AGM on December 6.
In response to the Welsh Assembly Government’s strategy for the creative industries in Wales and following widespread changes in the broadcasting industry as a result of the Communications Act 2003, TAC members have long been developing strategies to capitalise on the new and exciting opportunities created for the independent sector.
In turn, these new business opportunities have created a greater need for producers to be effectively represented by a well resourced trade association. The decision by TAC members to merge with Pact is a key factor in meeting their business objectives and moving forward as a sector.
A TAC merger with Pact allows officials from the new merged body greater resources and expertise to lobby, challenge and fight for members and advise and support a cross section of production companies to secure a vibrant media industry in Wales and in turn realise opportunities for the sector in the UK and international markets.
Dafydd Rhys, Chairman of TAC, commented: “This is very good news for the future development of a vibrant independent sector in Wales. TAC, which was established in 1984, currently represents some 70 businesses primarily involved in the production of programmes and content for Welsh based broadcasters and other providers of audio visual services.
“Pact has excellent resources at its disposal which will benefit television and film producers in Wales as they evolve and adapt to the fast pace of change in the sector. The decision to merge with Pact was not taken lightly but it was a unanimous one by the TAC Council. The decision reflects the evolving needs of companies in Wales as they grow and exploit new markets in this increasingly competitive and technology driven marketplace.
“We are also delighted to announce that the merger will provide a well-resourced bilingual office in Wales which will continue to represent its members in all dealings with broadcasters in Wales. The new Director for Wales, when appointed, will represent the interests of Welsh producers on Pact’s Nations and Regions policy group (NRPG) meetings and on Pact Council.
“In addition to the elected Pact representative for members in Wales, who is also a member of TAC Council, an additional member of TAC Council will be co-opted to NRPG during the transitional period, thus providing a strong voice for Wales throughout Pact’s operation.
“We also look forward to future discussions with Pact towards the establishment of a bilingual strategic board for Wales to advise and guide the Pact office in Wales to deliver long-term benefits to our members.”
Alex Graham, Chief Executive of Wall to Wall and chair of Pact was positive about the merger:
“Pact welcomes the merger with TAC and the opportunity to create a truly pan-UK trade association which represents the interests of all independent producers in the UK. We look forward to working with our new Welsh members and delivering the world class services and support Pact members have come to expect.”
(DS/CD)