The film-maker behind an award-winning documentary on the Corrib gas project has been told to apologise for a joke he cracked at the expense of the Irish Film and Television Awards (Ifta).

Risteard O Domhnaill has been asked to retract a quip about the €300-a-head price tag for tickets for family and crew to attend last month’s bash.

Amid the fall-out, Ifta chiefs accused him of abusing his time on stage, branded the remark annoying and then listed what nominees get in return, including make-up, red carpet treatment, promotional and media work.

After accepting his award, Mr O Domhnaill said he was deeply honoured and joked: “Thank you, Ifta. Although, at €300 a ticket, there’ll probably be one for everyone in the audience.”

The joke went down well on the night with the crowd but the organisers, who have refused to explain why they have demanded an apology, failed to see the funny side.

Mr O Domhnaill said: “I fully appreciate the support Ifta has given me and the team, and I’ve thanked them for everything they have done for the film.

“But I don’t understand why an apology and retraction is needed?
INDEPENDENT

Oh, big scary IFTA. What are you going to do? Get your revenge by putting up the ticket prices a bit more? People should pay at least €500 to enter an event attended by stars like Amy Huberman, Hector or Mickey Rooney.