asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will consider the setting up of an industry to make commercial films for Telefís Éireann as most of the present advertisements are imported from Britain.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Commercial Films for Telefís Éireann.
24.
Mr. Belton
The establishment of an industry to make commercial films for Telefís Éireann is a matter for private enterprise. I understand, however, that such films are already being produced by a number of private enterprise firms in this country and that, in fact, many of the commercial films broadcast by Telefís Éireann are made in Ireland.
Mr. Belton
I wonder would the Minister prohibit the importation of English films? Contrary to what he says, at the moment in 80 to 90 per cent of the films one sees, there are people with English accents, and having regard to that, will the Minister consider prohibiting their importation and thus provide work for 200 or 300 people?
I cannot comment in any great detail on the percentage of English accents in the films but I doubt if the figure which the Deputy has mentioned is correct. However, I do not propose to ban English commercials. There are some 11 firms in this country producing commercial films for Telefís Éireann. This is a matter for private enterprise and subject to the ordinary rules of competition.
Would it not be a good thing to employ Irish models?
He is being personal now.
They would look as well as any.
The Minister looked very well.