Mr. Gareth Lee:

Since the introduction of the new system, Screen Ireland has assessed more than 160 skills development plans and tracked more than 1,700 skills participants across section 481 productions. As well as the skills development aspect of the plan, producers are also encouraged to introduce both sustainability initiatives and diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives on their productions. This has seen significant positive change within the sector.

The value of the section 481 skills process to Ireland's film production sector is significant. It ensures that formality and structure is given to training. It also gives reliable front-line data on the key skills shortages and gaps that are being experienced on the ground. This, in turn, allows the sector to ensure that there is a pipeline of skilled talent to support both local and incoming production in a sustainable way.

In 2022, Screen Ireland, in collaboration with Screen Guilds of Ireland, launched a new competency framework that captures all of the skills, knowledge and competencies for in excess of 80 crew roles across 17 different departments. This resource enhances the section 481 skills tracking process, opens up access and career opportunities within the sector and supports third-level institutions and training providers with more targeted and relevant curriculum development. The next evolution is the development of a certification-accreditation model for work-based learning. Screen Ireland has started working closely with third-level partners and industry on this.

To improve workplace culture, Screen Ireland has developed two new online, self-led training programmes on bullying and harassment and unconscious bias that those working on section 481 productions will be requested to complete. These new programmes are also included as part of Safe To Create, a new collaborative programme aiming to provide safe and respectful working conditions for those working in the wider arts and creative sectors.

Screen Ireland works closely with industry stakeholders and is dedicated to doing everything possible to ensure fair opportunities for all. Before the end of the year, the agency will launch a new crew and services database for the sector that will help increase visibility of employment opportunities and access points for all to the industry. Everyone working in the industry and any new entrants will be able to self-register on the database and indicate if they are available and seeking work. Producers and companies will also be able to register on the site, search for crew and advertise opportunities centrally.

As evidenced above, a huge amount of positive work on skills and workforce development has happened in the screen sector in Ireland in recent years. This progress has either been directly related to section 481 or inspired by the section 481 skills requirement. Screen Ireland is proud of the work to date and the progress that has been made. We are keen to see even further progress in the years to come.

We thank the committee for its work on the film credit and look forward to answering any questions the members might have.