College course to prepare students for TG4 jobs

IRISH language television station TG4’s independence from RTÉ from April will create opportunities for television producers, especially working through Irish, a Waterford-based company and education bosses say.

Those behind the new Higher Diploma in Television Production (Ard Diploma in Léiriú Teilifíse) developed by Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) and the Nemeton production company in An Rinn Gaeltacht in Waterford say it opens up massive opportunities in the sector.

Supported by Údarás na Gaeltachta, the full-time course will run for one year with lectures and hands-on training provided on campus in Waterford and at Nemeton’s television studios in An Rinn.

Applicants are required to have or acquire a level of competency in spoken Irish and to hold an existing NQAI (National Qualifications Authority of Ireland) qualification at Level 7 or higher. Applications from those with relevant industry experience will also be considered.

“This course will provide a mix of technical and creative skills and equip them to meet the challenges of television production which remains one of the most exciting and competitive areas of our media,” said Prof Kieran R Byrne, Director, WIT, as applicants continued to apply directly to the Institute for places on the course.

“The Government decision to establish TG4 as an independent body providing a high quality Irish language service will open out further opportunities for those who complete the course we now offer with Nemeton.

“It is my understanding that TG4 will continue to receive grant aid from the Exchequer to fund their operations in 2007, along with the income they generate from advertising. The station has also presented a case to Government for a substantial increase in its level of funding to improve its Irish language schedule and to reduce its reliance on repeats and English language content,” he continued.

“A positive outcome to this application will create additional opportunities for graduates of the Higher Diploma in Television Production now offered in Waterford,” he added.

nFurther information on applications for the Higher Diploma in Television Production are available from Miriam Mulrennan at Nemeton on (058) 46499 or [e-mail]