Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 December 2013
207. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent to which he continues to have dialogue with the various stakeholders in the further development of the film making industry with particular reference to the encouragement of the use of this country as a film location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51911/13]
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 (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 Budgets 2013 and 2014, significant changes to the film and television production tax and incentive regime were announced. I believe that the impact of these changes will be significant in terms of economic and employment value of the sector.
I can also assure the Deputy that I avail of very opportunity to encourage film making in Ireland, including by facilitating the availability of locations such as historic buildings and national parks.
