Applications invited for TV production diploma course

STUDENTS of a higher diploma in television production at the Ring Gaeltacht have just finished shooting five documentaries for Irish television, while applications are now invited for the next course.

Production company Nemeton Television is running the Higher Diploma course in conjunction with Waterford Institute of Technology, with the aim of equipping graduates with the skills to work at the cutting edge of television.

According to training and development manager Miriam Mulrennan, the course is “an excellent opportunity” for anyone who wants to break into the television business.

“The course design mimics the real television production environment, thus enabling students to gain the practical experience that is needed for a successful career in the industry,” she said.

Delivered through Irish, the year-long HDip is delivered at Ring and in WIT.

Nemeton says that there is a shortage of trained directors and editors in the Irish television industry so graduates of this course will find a high value placed on their skills and talents.

The course was launched in 2006, with all of the first year of graduates securing employment in the industry. Applicants for the third year of the course should have a degree in any discipline, while individuals with relevant industry experience will also be considered. A good command of the Irish language is essential. The course is supported financially by Údarás na Gaeltachta, so there are no fees.

Current students of the course shot five documentaries on location in Dublin, Tipperary and Waterford and the Connemara Gaeltacht.

Each of the 11 students developed programme proposals which were then pitched to TG4 commissioning editor Michéal Ó Meallaigh, mirroring the process independent television producers undergo in getting their programmes made.

Student and former school teacher Tom Ó Braonáin delved into the history books for his documentary Robin Hood na nGael — An Rogaire agus an Ropaire. The documentary tells the true story of William Crotty from the Comeraghs who, in the 18th century, robbed from the rich to give to the poor.

Finscéal an Master McGrath, tells the story of another Waterford hero from the 19th century. Master McGrath was the greyhound who won the prestigious Windsor Cup three times. The crew attended the hare coursing event in Clonmel as part of their research.

Uimhir a hAon, directed by Daithí Ó Daibhín, looks at the history of Ireland’s top 30 music chart.

Feachtas na mbóithre, directed by Galway woman Sharon Ní Loidéain, highlights the road tax crisis in Connemara during the 1980s, while Torann na Tonnta investigates the tragedy that saw three fisherman killed when a mine blew up in Helvic harbour two days after the end of World War 2.

lDetails of the course can be obtained from 058-46499 or [e-mail]