"The CTF is the single most important initiative that supports distinctively Canadian television shows," says Guy Mayson, President and CEO, CFTPA. "Since its inception in 1995, the CTF has contributed $2.5 billion to the economy, and triggered the production of more than $8 billion in Canadian programming. Overall across Canada the independent production sector employs close to 100,000 Canadians every year. Long-term sustainable financing is absolutely key to the stability of our sector."

The CFTPA is also pleased the government is supporting the growth potential of interactive media production by essentially maintaining funding levels to the CNMF. The CNMF is a national program that supports the creation and distribution of interactive digital cultural content products. A strong interactive sector is essential if Canada is to be competitive in the exploding international digital marketplace.

Other longer-term stimulus measures for the independent production sector were presented to MPs, and government officials during the pre-budget consultations, including a meeting with Canadian Heritage Minister James Moore. The CFTPA asked for a 10 point increase in the rate of the Canadian Film or Video Production Tax Credit and a 4 point increase in the rate of the Film or Video Production Services Tax Credit. The CFTPA also outlined an international growth strategy for the independent sector through a new, more flexible co-production policy as well as the creation of production and marketing funds for co-productions.

"We know there is much more work to be done for our sector to realize our full potential as leading contributors to the creative economy," says CFTPA Chair Sandra Cunningham. "Producers have developed a solid strategy to foster improved competitiveness and growth of the independent production sector as key employers in television, feature film, and interactive media."