Maltese film-makers have been invited to apply for funds allocated by the government to cultivate the growing industry.

“We appreciate that the film industry is an important one that keeps growing,” Finance Minister Tonio Fenech said as he announced the allocation of €250,000 for the develop-ment and production of films and documentaries.

He said that over the past four years Malta had attracted 65 international films that generated €150 million in the economy.

Building on this argument, Culture Minister Mario de Marco said that while it was very important to attract international productions, it was equally important to encourage Maltese expertise in the field.

“Some mistakenly think the culture industry is one that needs to be subsidised but they are wrong. It is a contributor to the economy,” Dr de Marco said.

Recent figures showed there were 3,500 culture-related companies in Malta that employed about 8,000 people. He said the government was working on a strategy for the cultural sector.

The government was investing in the sector and, since the film fund was set up in 2008, almost €1 million had been given out.

Mr Fenech said some Maltese productions, such as the controversial Dear Dom – a documentary about the life of former Labour leader Dom Mintoff, directed by Pierre Ellul – were even making it to the big screen. Tele-Monkey, a short animated film, will premiere on Wednesday.

Mr Fenech said various courses were being offered to build technical film-making expertise. The Malta Film Commission was recently awarded €250,000 from the European Social Fund for this purpose, he said.

Applicants for the 2012 film fund can benefit from development grants that would cover 60 per cent of expenses, up to a maximum of €20,000. Production grants will cover up to 50 per cent of expenses with a capping of €120,000.

Applications can be downloaded from www.mfc.com.mt.