Save B.C. Film campaign meets with NDP candidates

B.C.'s film industry is turning to the provincial NDP in its campaign to boost tax credits for film production.

On Thursday night, members of film industry invited New Democrat candidates on the North Shore to meet with them.

"We have an election coming up we're in a position where we can educate our MLAs and the candidates," said Wayne Bennett with Save B.C. Film.

"So we can educate not only the MLAs but the MLAs can hear us, and give feedback and ask questions and understand."

Seymour NDP candidate Jim Hanson says the meeting was useful for both sides.

"I think it's important when we're dealing with an industry such as the film industry that the government pay attention to it and work in a very co-operative way with that industry to ensure the environment, the overall business environment, is appropriate for that industry and ensure that it flourishes," Hanson said.

Bennett says Save B.C. Film was approached by the NDP to put on the event, but has already been in touch with sitting Liberal MLAs on the North Shore.

Those in the industry are calling on the provincial government to make policy changes so B.C. can be more competitive.

The B.C. film tax credit is currently set at 33 per cent of labour costs, while Ontario and Quebec grant a 25 per cent tax credit on all production costs.

B.C.'s next provincial election ison May 14.