asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if any financial assistance is forthcoming from central funds towards the film industry in this country; and, if so, the amount.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Film Industry Assistance.
24.
At present there is none, but I am preparing legislation to provide such assistance.
Is there some semi-State body through which money can be lent to film companies?
I am not so aware. There is the Irish Film Finance Corporation but I understand that body have not been active for ten years. Indeed I understand they have accummulated losses.
How are the studios financed—how was the money funded?
They were financed from the Exchequer as interest bearing repayable advances under section 23 of the Broadcasting Act, 1960.
Is the Minister in a position to say whether negotiations have been completed successfully between his Department and the IDA with a view to the purchase of a number of acres of land in the neighbourhood of the studios?
I am not trying to avoid replying to the question but I have not got that information. If the Deputy will put down a question on it I will try to get the information for him.
Apart from direct financial assistance, could the Minister say whether arrangements made some years ago, whereby potential film makers could have access to public buildings and public services through getting in touch with one central official, are still in operation, and if so——
That is a matter which is substantially different from the subject matter of the question and to which I do not have an answer. However, I will certainly find one for the Deputy.
The Minister will appreciate that it is often as important for potential film makers to have access to public buildings and services as it is to get direct financial assistance.
This question relates to financial arrangements only.