TV3 HAS OFFICIALLY declined to take part in this year’s Irish Film and Television Awards.
The station made the decision two months ago after taking a “long look” at the situation, said Maureen Catterson, head of publicity.
“We just came to the conclusion that the IFTAs focused on public service broadcasting – and that is not our strength,” Catterson told TheJournal.ie.
“There is also a financial element to it,” she added. “Rather than spend money on submitting programmes for consideration, we can spend it in other areas.”
The station has wished the awards’ organisers the best of luck and Catterson said that TV3 has informed the IFTAs of its intentions.
Despite the decision taken back in November, two of TV3′s programmes did get a nod from the nominating panel earlier this month.
Both The Apprentice and Head Chef were nominated in the Best Reality Programme category.
“Independent companies are entitled to put forward their own programmes,” explained Catterson.
The Apprentice is produced by Screentime ShinAwiL and Head Chef by Sideline Productions.
There will be no formal attendance from TV3 stars or executives at the announcement ceremony on 11 February. However, staff have not been told not to attend.
“That has been left to their discretion but as a station, we won’t be taking part,” concluded Catterson.
The decision is not entirely unexpected as the station has previously voiced complaints that its programmes are ignored by the Irish Oscars.
RTÉ’s Love/Hate leads the nomination list with placement in 10 categories, including Best Drama and Best Actor.
