Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 9 Mar 1999

Vol. 501 No. 6

Written Answers. - Official Engagements.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

95 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if she will report on her recent visit to Los Angeles; the progress, if any, made in securing interest for investment in the Irish film industry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6895/99]

Enda Kenny

Question:

102 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the outcome of official meetings held by her during her recent visit to Los Angeles; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6920/99]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 95 and 102 together.

I gave full details of my trip to Los Angeles in response to Question No. 161 of 24 February 1999. The launch of the Screen Commission in Los Angeles and my meetings with key contacts in the major studios and agencies is part of the ongoing work to highlight and market abroad the many attractions of Ireland as a film and television production location. I am confident that my activity will contribute to continuing invest ment in film production in Ireland. However, the Deputy will appreciate that the decision of film producers to locate anywhere is influenced by many complex considerations and is ultimately a commercial one.