Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 March 2012
351 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties facing a studio (details supplied) in County Wicklow; if he has had any contact with that studio on the matter to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16760/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am aware of the difficulties facing the studios referred to in the Deputy's Question. I understand that the statutory agency with responsibility for the development of the sector in question, and which is funded by my Department, is in ongoing discussions with the owners of the studios. Accordingly, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this juncture.
352 Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if strong consideration can be given, in view of the recent measures announced in the UK budget, to the introduction of new measures and the strengthening of existing ones to ensure Ireland maintains its competitive advantage in the film and TV industry over other competitors and in particular in extending tax relief to include not only film and TV production but also animation and gaming; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16948/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraPrimary responsibility for the support and promotion of film-making in Ireland, in respect of both the indigenous sector and inward productions, is a matter for the Irish Film Board. This agency is funded through my Department and has been allocated €15.7m in 2012 to carry out its functions. Under section 481 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997, tax relief is allowed for investments in certain films. The types of film eligible for certification are feature film, television drama, creative documentary and animation. The scheme is kept under regular review in conjunction with the Irish Film Board and any enhancements considered necessary to retain or regain competitiveness are brought to the attention of the Minister for Finance, as appropriate. The scheme has been extended to the end of 2015. I have asked the Irish Film Board to provide an analysis of the likely impact of the proposed move by the U.K. Treasury.
