Vol. 501 No. 1
161 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if she will give details of her trip to Los Angeles; the official meetings she is involved with in promoting the cause of the Irish film industry; the number of her official travelling party; and if she is accompanied by any business representatives involved in the Irish film industry. [5357/99]
As the Deputy, is no doubt aware, I am in Los Angeles. There are five members in my Department's travelling party, including myself.
On Sunday, 21 February, I visited the Irish Screen Commissions stand at the Association of Film Commissioners International Locations Exposition in the Los Angeles Convention Centre. On Tuesday, 22 February, I formally launched the Screen Commission of Ireland at a reception for US film industry leaders and Irish industry professionals visiting Los Angeles.
I am availing of my visit to promote the work of the Screen Commission by visiting and liaising with key contacts in the major studios and agencies. Meetings and visits have been and are being held with Paramount Pictures; Twentieth Century Fox; Universal Pictures; Concorde-New Horizons Corporation; International Creative Management; Sony Pictures and Dreamworks. These companies were selected on the basis of their potential to contribute to the development of the film industry in Ireland.
I understand there are many Irish film business personnel in Los Angeles this week and I take this opportunity to thank them again for the support which their presence has been in helping to make the launch of the Screen Commission in Los Angeles a productive occasion for the Irish film industry.
The Deputy will be aware of the importance I attach to further developing and strengthening the links between the US film industry and the Irish film industry and of my strong view that meetings and events such as those taking place in Los Angeles this week are vitally important in ensuring Ireland remains on the mental map of decision makers in Hollywood when considering making a film in Europe. During my visit, I have been availing of every opportunity to emphasise that Ireland is a rich source of talent and creativity and that opportunities exist for US producers to work with Irish producers in developing stories for the international market.
