Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 3 Jun 1998

Vol. 491 No. 6

Written Answers. - Film Industry Investment.

Enda Kenny

Question:

233 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the number of applications for relief under section 35 of the Finance Act for film investment received in her Department since her appointment; the number and grade of staff in her Department dealing with this policy area; her views on whether this facility for investment is being exploited to its potential; the plans, if any, she has in this area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12990/98]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera)

Since my appointment as Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands, 30 film projects have received certification under section 481 of the Taxes Consolidation Act, 1997, formerly section 35 of the Finance Act, 1987, as amended, and a further seven applications are being processed by my Department giving a total of 37 applications.

A film policy area in my Department is staffed by one principal officer who also has other responsibilities, one assistant principal officer, one higher executive officer and one executive officer.

I am confident the section 481 measure is contributing significantly to the development of the film industry in Ireland. In this regard, I will shortly be establishing an industry think-tank to evaluate the effectiveness of all existing schemes and incentives and to formulate a strategic plan for my consideration relating to the future of the industry.