Barry Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I congratulate Mr. Bill O'Herlihy and wish him every success. I have no doubt that he is eminently qualified and a willing partner in furthering the film sector.

Has he set specific targets in conjunction with the chief executive and the board of the Irish Film Board against which his success might be measured in the future? Has he envisaged a process to bring the work of the Irish Film Board to the regions? The local authorities have sought to instigate such an industry in the regions and County Offaly is a case a point. The members of the local authorities and to a greater extent the young population could benefit from such a roadshow as this would encourage creativity in our young people and prepare them for openings that might emerge in the sector in the future. Those in the film sector can be more than successful and a great benefit can accrue to the State by virtue of those who come here. Visitor numbers can always grow and expand. The regions are the gems of the country and I hope that Mr. O'Herlihy can lead a campaign to expose them so that we will all benefit.