The Writers Credits Guiding Principles were agreed between Screen Producers Ireland (SPI) and the Writers Guild of Ireland (WGI) in September 2017.

The following list of credits for writers is for guidance purposes only. The writing credit definitions mirror those of the International Affiliation of Writers Guilds.

It is important to note that the contract between the producer and the writer will take precedent over these guidelines.

We recommend that the producer and writer avail of legal advice before signing a contract.  You can also consult with the WGI/SPI.

1. Story by
   The term “story” means an original idea written for the screen which is distinct from a screenplay and consisting of the basic narrative, idea, theme or outline indicating character development and action. A “Story by” credit is appropriate when the screenplay is based on a story, as defined above, and not based on any pre-existing material.
2. Screen Story by
   Credit for story authorship in the form “Screen Story by” is appropriate when a story, as defined above, is based on source material though substantially new or different from the source material.
3. Screenplay by
   A screenplay consists of individual scenes and full dialogue, together with such prior treatment, basic adaptation, continuity, scenario and dialogue as shall be used in, and substantially contributes to, the final script.

   A “Screenplay by” credit is appropriate when the screenplay is based upon a story or a screen story as defined above.

4. Written by
   The term “Written by” is used when the writer(s) is entitled to both the “Story by” credit and the “Screenplay by” credit.

   This credit shall not be granted where there is source material of a story nature. However, biographical, newspaper and other factual sources may not necessarily deprive the writer of such credit.

5. Narration Written by
   A “Narration Written by” credit is appropriate where the major writing contribution to a motion picture is in the form of narration. The term “narration” means material (typically off-camera) to explain or relate sequence or action (excluding promos or trailers).
6. Based on Characters Created by
   “Based on Characters Created by” is a writing credit given to the writer(s) entitled to separated rights in a theatrical or television motion picture. This credit is accorded when a sequel to a theatrical or television motion picture is produced for television (excluding a television series).
7. Shared credit
   When credit is accorded to a team of writers, an ampersand (&) shall be used between the writers’ names in the credit to denote a writing team. Use of the word “and” between writers’ names in a credit indicates that the writers did their work separately, one usually rewriting the other. This distinction is well established in the industry through custom and practice.
8. The Possessory Credit
   The possessory credit “a film by” or its variations, is accorded to a director who has written and directed the film; and or who has a significant body of work and whose reputation as a film-maker is such that it can make a significant contribution to the marketing of the film. Writers’ guilds do not believe that the possessory credit should be used in any other circumstances.

Nominations to vacant places on the Board of Directors, proposed by a member entitled to vote at the AGM, together with a note of consent to be so nominated from the nominee, should reach the Company Secretary at Arthouse, Curved Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 2 not later than 5.00 pm on 17 May 2017.

A form of proxy has been sent to you by email, which may be used if a member is unable to attend the AGM. Completed proxy forms should reach the Company Secretary at Arthouse, Curved Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 2 by 5.00 pm on 18 May 2017.

Additional copies sent by post may be requested from the office by email or by phone: (01) 670 9970.

The WGI would like to invite all its members to a

Special Christmas Lucky Dozen

from 6.30pm – 9.30pm on Thursday, 8 December
in the Palace Bar (Upstairs), Fleet Street, Dublin 2.

This event is special because it’s the holiday season, it’s for more than a dozen,
plus you get a free drink.

The topic is: general writerly chat.

Come one, come all!

Please RSVP to info (a) script.ie.

A dozen seats will be allocated to members on a first-come, first-served basis.

Hugh Travers, the writer of the acclaimed three-part drama Trial of the Century which was broadcast on TV3 earlier this year, will give a talk to members of the Guild on his experience of writing the series. In particular, he’ll focus on the specific challenges which can arise when writing a historical or factually-based script. As well as ‘Trial of the Century’, Hugh has written live action drama, comedy, theatre, animation and documentary, including Lambo (which won the PPI Drama Award for Best Radio Play);Green Is The Colour, a hugely successful 4 × 1 hour documentary series for Treasure Entertainment and RTE and Red Rock. He has also written and developed comedy shows for the BBC Worldwide, Channel 4 and Sky and some of his award-winning short films include Crossword, An Cosc, Special Ed & The Big Girl.

In Galway for the Fleadh and fancy catching up with friends and colleagues?

Why not drop by the Galway Rowing Cub at 5 pm on Saturday, 9 July, where WGI staff and members will be hanging out and taking a breather in between the hectic pace of the films, markets, and workshops.

Come join us for tea, coffee, or something a little stronger…