Quebec Media Production Association expresses concern over the decrease in production numbers
The Quebec Association of Media Production (AQPM) has expressed concerns about the future of the audiovisual industry, particularly independent Quebec television production, following the publication of a recent report. The report, titled "Profil de l'industrie audiovisuelle au Québec," outlines several challenges facing the sector.
Hélène Messier, director of the AQPM, views the tribute ceremony for Serge Fiori as a reminder of the importance of culture and its environments. She believes that audiovisual production serves as a form of cohesion within a population, promoting shared values and emotions. However, she is concerned about the current decline in production and the losses suffered by many workers, who are being forced to take on other jobs or completely retrain.
One of the key factors contributing to the decrease in independent Quebec television production is the increasing use of digital technologies in productions. While technology can enhance production quality, it also introduces new competitive pressures from global streaming platforms and other media forms. Another challenge is the shift in audience preferences, with younger audiences appearing to be increasingly disengaged from traditional Quebec television.
The industry and government have been criticized for not adequately supporting content for adolescent audiences, which may further exacerbate the disengagement of younger audiences. Economic pressures, including potential financial penalties and constraints that might limit investment in independent productions, are also a concern.
The rapid evolution of the situation and the decrease in jobs in the sector raise concerns about future generations of workers. Hélène Messier urges governments at both federal and provincial levels to recognize the fragility of the audiovisual industry and continue supporting it. She also encourages governments to invest more in culture, as it holds intellectual properties and collective wealth.
The Canada Media Fund (CMF) is a main source of funding for television, but its financial contributions are decreasing due to cable cancellations. The revival of the audiovisual production sector after the COVID-19 pandemic has now faded rapidly.
Hélène Messier is particularly concerned about the decline in audiovisual production in terms of national identity and representation on screen. Nearly 14% of workers in the audiovisual sector lost their jobs last year, and there has been a 17% drop in the number of Quebec audiovisual productions.
Messier is also concerned about the reaction of governments to this decline, especially regarding the possible withdrawal of the C-11 Online Streaming Act or digital taxes projects due to pressure from foreign platforms. She is interested in the report that the Working Group on the Future of Audiovisual in Quebec should publish soon, and insists that the group's mandate should be carried out within the current financial framework to ensure the growth of the industry and the sustainability of what already exists.
- The decline in independent Quebec television production may also impact the French-speaking lifestyle and national identity, considering the loss of nearly 14% of jobs in the audiovisual sector last year and a 17% drop in Quebec productions.
- The audiovisual industry is not only about business and finance but also contributes significantly to culture, playing a crucial role in cohesion and promoting shared values and emotions, as stated by Hélène Messier, director of the AQPM.
- The future of entertainment, especially local content for adolescent audiences, remains uncertain due to the inadequate support from the industry and government,economic pressures, and potential financial penalties or constraints.
