MB Government: Province Announces Members of Film and Video Production Tax Credit Working Group

April 23, 2018

Committee Held First Meeting April 18

The Manitoba government is following through on its Budget 2018 commitment to establish a working group to evaluate the Manitoba Film and Video Production Tax Credit, Finance Minister Cameron Friesen and Sport, Culture and Heritage Minister Cathy Cox announced today.

“We’re always looking for ways to innovate and improve our tax credit programs to ensure Manitoba can expand and diversify its thriving film industry,” Cox said.  “This group is uniquely positioned to assess and reflect on the current Manitoba Film and Video Production Tax Credit and offer its advice.”

Budget 2018 announced the province would establish the Manitoba Film and Video Production Tax Credit Working Group.  The group will evaluate the effectiveness and the outcomes of the tax credit including factors such as return on investment.  The working group held its inaugural meeting on April 18 and is anticipated to submit its final report this summer, Cox added.

“We have seen a lot of exciting growth in the film and video industry.  The sector is highly competitive and Manitoba understands the importance and benefits of having production work done here,” Friesen said.  “We want to reach out to the industry and use an evidence-based approach to determine how effective the tax credit is and whether there are ways to do things better for the sector and all Manitobans.”

The working group will review similar tax credits in other jurisdictions and offer advice on what level of support is required to maintain Manitoba’s competitive advantage, have sustainable future growth, and establish performance and results-based indicators.

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BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED

For more information:

• Public information, contact Manitoba Government Inquiry: 1-866-626-4862 or 204-945-3744.
• Media requests for general information, contact Communications Services Manitoba: 204-945-3765.
• Media requests for ministerial comment, contact Communications and Stakeholder Relations: 204-945-4916.

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