Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 May 2005
241 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his Department’s intentions in regard to the future of the film industry; the extra financial inducements to support the industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15438/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is my intention to support and promote film making in Ireland to the maximum extent possible. To this end I will attend the Cannes Film Festival later this month. Direct support of the industry is a matter for the Irish Film Board, which, although under the aegis of my Department, is independent on a day to day basis. The funds provided by my Department to the Irish Film Board in 2005 came to €14.45 million, an increase of 22% on the 2004 figure. The section 481 incentive for investment in film production has now been extended to at least 2008, with the amount that can be raised increased to €15 million from the start of this year.
