Malcolm Byrne (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Regarding some of the issues I raised earlier and following on from Ms Callery's point, it is important for us to get clarity on whether the witnesses believe that the content levy should be used to attract large international productions and how that might operate.

A lot of the focus in this discussion has been on drama. One of the big success stories for Ireland has been animation. I refer to the success of Cartoon Saloon with "Wolfwalkers", "The Secret of Kells" and "Song of the Sea". There are many other companies in this space as well. Will Mr. McCabe outline how the funding model might be able to help the animation sector? People listening in today might recall there was some criticism in the Dáil of the film industry without an opportunity for it to respond. It is important to stress this is a good sector in which to work and a good career path, particularly in light of the new film agreements that SPI has negotiated. I would like to give Ms Kirby an opportunity to respond to some of the criticisms.

In regard to drama, Ms Callery spoke about "The Clinic". Many of us here today would love to see a good political drama created at some stage, although perhaps as politicians we create enough drama here. An Irish political drama is much needed.