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Film Industry Promotion

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 November 2018

Thursday, 15 November 2018

Questions (250)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

250. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent to which she anticipates the film industry here and abroad to utilise the scenery here for filming on location; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47636/18]

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Written answers

The Irish audio-visual industry utilises Ireland's wonderful scenery to great effect. This trend has been particularly pronounced in recent years with some excellent examples. In particular, I would highlight the film Brooklyn, the TV drama series Vikings, The Young Offenders which is both a film and TV drama series and of course Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens and Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi.

Fís Éireann is the national development agency for Irish film making and the Irish film, television and animation industry. Its statutory remit is to assist and encourage the making of film in the State and the development of a film industry in Ireland. Fís Éireann supports writers, directors and production companies across these sectors by providing investment loans for the development, production and distribution of film, television and animation projects. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that €20.04m is to be allocated to Fís Éireann under Budget 2019. This is an increase of €2 million on the 2018 figure.

Fís Éireann also supports the Irish screen industries at major international markets and festivals, promotes inward investment, the use of Ireland as a location for international production and provides support for companies filming in Ireland. It also liaises with IDA Ireland and Tourism Ireland to maximise opportunities for the promotion of Ireland as a location for film productions as well as a tourism destination.

Fís Éireann also offers practical support and information for film makers in accessing skilled crew and studio and technical infrastructure. The Inward Production team provides ground logistical support and advice on filming in Ireland. A detailed guide together with a toolkit to filming in Ireland can be accessed on the website at the following link https://www.screenireland.ie/filming/why-film-in-ireland.

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