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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 2 Mar 1995

Vol. 450 No. 1

Written Answers. - Film Production.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

30 Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht the proposals, if any, he has for the promotion of Ireland as a film production location in the continental european market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4693/95]

The promotion of Ireland as a film production location has been a cornerstone of my policy to promote and develop our indigenous film industry. To this end I have set in place a series of incentives and initiatives which have been enthusiastically taken up by film producers worldwide, including those working in the European sphere. The measures include: the tax incentives available under section 35 of the Finance Act, 1987 as amended which have been a major catalyst in bringing co-production projects between Irish and international producers to this country; the involvement of Ireland in European filmrelated initiatives; notable in this context is the EU MEDIA Programme 1991-1995 which has been a major significance in developing Irish film projects from the very early stages and in promoting a strategic alliance between Irish producers and their European counterparts; as well as Eurimages — the Council of Europe co-production film fund which has assisted several Irish films to date and which requires that Irish producers secure two European partners; and through An Bord Tráchtála and Bord Scannán na hÉireann's representation at prestigious film festivals, such as Cannes and Berlin, where the merits and advantages of co-production arrangements with Irish producers and of film making in Ireland are advertised to the European and wider international film-making industry.

In addition to these initiatives the Deputy will be aware that I propose establishing a screen commission which will function as a "one stop shop" and a facilitator for the film industry. This is fully in line with the commitment given by this Government in its Programme —A Government of Renewal— which states that “A Screen Commission will be established so as to maximise Ireland's attractiveness as a location for film”. It is my intention that this commission will be a very active and energetic player on the international scene both in marketing the many advantages Ireland enjoys as a location for films and also to smooth out potential problems or difficulties on the ground so as to develop a “film friendly” environment here. I will soon be bringing forward specific proposals regarding the development of a screen commission to Government.

The Deputy can be assured that I am keen to consolidate the progress already made and to continue the development of this very important cultural industry.

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