Katherine Rich National Arts Culture and Heritage Spokesperson

18 December 2002

Investigation into Film Commission funding needed

Minister Judith Tizard's proclaimed confidence in the New Zealand Film Commission places her in a minority, says National Arts, Culture & Heritage Spokesperson Katherine Rich.

"Of the outspoken filmmakers in the media and filmmakers I have spoken to, nobody is in favour of the Film Commission over the issue of funding Kahukura Films, apart from the Minister.

"How can the Minister continue to have full confidence in the Film Commission when there has been a total silence from the industry in support of it? "The Minister should instigate an investigation into the role of the Film Commission in the demise of Kahukura Films.

"The film industry is the premier art export industry in this country. The industry needs clarity over the funding of films from the Commission and an assurance that this funding is fair.

"The Lord of the Rings has offered a golden opportunity for our skilled and talented film makers to expand their horizons, and project New Zealand onto the world stage in this arena.

"It would be tragic if an exercise of poor judgment by the New Zealand Film Commission were to dampen that success," said Mrs Rich.

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