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Landmark Agreement for Directors & Creatives in Ireland Now in Effect

March 14, 2025

The Screen Directors Guild of Ireland (SDGI) is proud to announce that the Principles of Fair and Equitable remuneration is now officially in effect, ensuring that directors, writers, actors, and composers in the Irish screen industry receive transparency and fair and ongoing compensation for their work.

This achievement is the result of tireless advocacy by SDGI alongside the Writers Guild of Ireland, Irish Equity, Screen Composers Guild. It represents a historic shift in how directors and creative professionals are valued, aligning Ireland with best European practices and setting a new standard for fairness in the industry.

For years, directors and other creatives were locked into outdated buyout contracts, receiving a one-time payment while their work generated revenue for others. SDGI refused to accept this status quo. Through extensive negotiation, legal expertise, and unwavering determination, the guild has successfully pushed through these new protections, ensuring that Irish directors and creatives will finally receive the financial recognition they deserve.

Maurice Sweeney, SDGI Chairperson, on the Guild’s Leadership:

“This is a major victory for Ireland’s directors and creative professionals, and it would not have been possible without the relentless dedication of SDGI. I want to personally thank, in particular, our writers, actors and composers who have helped with the negotiations. I would also like to thank Screen Producers Ireland and Animation Ireland for their honest and forthright discussions at the table. The strength of this guild lies in its commitment to fighting for the rights of its members, and today, we have delivered real and lasting change. This agreement also reflects a significant shift and producers are recognising the value of creators and showing a willingness to support fair compensation. It is a really important step forward for the entire industry.”

Birch Hamilton, SDGI Executive Director, on the Impact of This Agreement:

“Since 2001, there has been no change to Irish copyright legislation, leaving directors without the protections they deserve. This is a historic, momentous shift, one that finally recognises directors’ rights and ensures they are fairly remunerated. This agreement will change the situation forever for directors, securing their rightful place in the industry and ensuring their work is creatively and financially valued.I am incredibly proud to be part of this groundbreaking achievement and to see Irish directors finally receive the recognition they have long deserved.”

Key Protections Now in Effect for Directors & Creatives:

    • Appropriate & Proportionate Remuneration – No more buyouts; directors and creatives receive fair, ongoing compensation.
    • Transparency Obligation – Producers must provide annual financial reports detailing revenue from creative works.
    • Contract Adjustment Mechanism (“Best-Seller Clause”) – If a project becomes a financial success, directors can renegotiate their compensation.
    • Right of Revocation – If a project is not distributed, directors and creatives can reclaim their rights.
    • Alternative Dispute Resolution – The Industry is establishing a structured mediation process to ensure compliance.

What Directors & Creatives Can Do Now:

• Visit the SDGI website for full guidelines – Including wording, templates, and next steps you can take.
• Review your contracts – Ensure they align with these new protections.
• Request financial reports – If you are entitled to revenue-sharing, make sure you receive annual financial statements from producers.
• Know your rights – If a project becomes a hit, you can renegotiate your contract.
• Reclaim unused work – If a project is not being exploited, you have the right to take back ownership.
• Reach out for support – If you experience issues with compliance, contact SDGI for guidance and mediation.

With this agreement now in effect, SDGI has cemented its role as the leading advocate for directors in Ireland, proving once again that collective action delivers real results.

For more information, visit ww.sdgi.ie where you will find detailed next steps, legal wording to communicate with producers, and resources to ensure your rights are upheld.

 

READ HERE: IMPLEMENTATION OF THE EUROPEAN COPYRIGHT DIRECTIVE

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