Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2013
727. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent to which he is in a position to assist with the promotion and development of the film industry with particular reference to the use of various scenic locations throughout this country for film-making; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36953/13]
View answer764. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent to which it is intended to promote the use of this country as a film location with obvious and consequent economic benefits; if he has had any discussions with potential film-makers from overseas regarding same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38831/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 727 and 764 together.
As the Deputy is aware, primary responsibility for the support and promotion of film-making in Ireland, in respect of both the indigenous sector and inward productions (including assistance with locations for the making of films), is a matter for the Irish Film Board (IFB). The IFB is the statutorily independent agency responsible for the promotion and development of the Irish film industry and I have no responsibility in relation to its day-to-day operational matters, including the allocation of resources to different support programmes and schemes.
In regard to the supports available, I would direct the Deputy's attention to the annual reports of the IFB, which are lodged periodically in the Oireachtas Library, and also to the publications by the Board itself on its website www.irishfilmboard.ie .
I would also like to direct the Deputy to the website of the Irish Film and Television Academy - www.ifta.ie – which is another useful information and promotional tool.
