Talent Attraction Scheme Launched In Wales

A new Talent Attraction Scheme (TAS) has been launched in Wales by Pact.
The scheme, which was devised by Pact and funded by Skillset Cymru and Creative Business Wales, is the first of its kind to launch within the nation and it aims to position Wales as a major provider of broadcast output, both nationally and internationally.
The scheme will comprise an expert panel made up of senior personnel from three of the major broadcasters - BBC, ITV and Channel 4 - across the UK. It will run for a three-year period and financial support will be offered to three selected independent production companies to recruit executive talent, in order to boost production and help skill-up personnel through mentoring, advice and training.
£390,000 will be available in funding over three years, which will be matchfunded by the individual companies.
The expert panel will select the production companies, which will benefit from the funds and will award the money on the strength of the companies ability to produce leading work.
Welsh Deputy First Minister Wyn Jones is also backing calls for more original TV drama to be made in Wales. BBC sci-fi series 'Doctor Who' and 'Torchwood' are both filmed in Wales.
David Strachan, Pact's chair for out of London policy, said: "The scheme is the first of its kind and is the first step towards ensuring that wealth of talent that exists across the UK is encouraged to develop and grow. We welcome the support of the broadcasters who, through this scheme, have shown their commitment the creative success of the independent production community outside of London, not only be sitting on the expert panel, but by ensuring the delivery of regular introductions to the commissioning teams - something which is integral to indies who are located outside of the M25 corridor."
Dinah Caine, CEO of Skillset, said: "This is a major initiative for Wales and the full and active support of the key broadcasters confirms this. 'Doctor Who' and 'Torchwood' have both been international successes and demonstrated that Wales has talent to make world-class productions. This scheme aims to further this and bring in senior talent to Wales and work them on training and mentoring junior production teams."
Production companies wishing to apply for the Production Talent Scheme need to call: 02920 452828 for eligibility criteria and full application details. The deadline for applications is June 6, 2008.
Pact is the UK trade association that represents the commercial interests of independent feature film, television, animation and interactive media companies.
Further information is available at: www.pact.co.uk.
Skillset is the Sector Skills Council (SSC) for Creative Media, which comprises TV, film, radio, interactive media, animation, computer games, facilities, photo imaging and publishing.
Further information is available at: www.skillset.org.
(KMcA/JM)