Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)

I welcome the opportunity of speaking on this Bill which I hope will ensure the Irish Film Board's work is not restricted by a lack of funding. The Bill will enable the board to deal with the ongoing evolution in the domestic and international film industry. It is important for the economy, as well as our prestige internationally, that we sustain the commendable work carried out by the Irish Film Board. Last year, the number of films completed was substantially higher than in the previous year. Some of the earlier downturn in film production could have been the result of the uncertainty surrounding the future section 481 but, thankfully, that issue has been addressed.

The film industry has significant employment potential. Even though employment in the industry is not usually permanent because of the cyclical nature of film production, we need to ensure workers are fully protected. In that regard, the labour inspectorate should be asked to investigate the practices of certain companies. I am aware, for example, of a large post-production company in Dublin which abuses young people by making them work long hours for approximately €3 per hour. Deputy Morgan is confirming that scandal and will be raising it on an ongoing basis until it is addressed. The same company appears to be placing people on night shifts regardless of whether they have already worked a day shift. Such practices leave a bad feeling in my mouth and they should be stopped.

The greater the number of films made in Ireland through the encouragement of the Irish Film Board, the stronger will be the creative side of Irish society. Irish films offer a vehicle to show the world the beauty of our cities and countryside and an opportunity to tell a wider audience the stories of generations of Irish people. The spectacular box office success of "The Wind that Shakes the Barley" demonstrates that money can be made from investing in films and this will hopefully encourage Irish investors. I support Deputy Finian McGrath in calling on investors to consider projects currently in gestation, such as the film about James Connolly to which the Deputy referred. The support of Deputies has been sought for this project and I hope we will be able to augment any contributions made by the Irish Film Board if that project gets under way so the world can understand the influence Mr. Connolly had not only in Ireland but also in England and the United States.

By passing this Bill, we will enable the Irish Film Board to fully meet its responsibilities. I hope we will be debating a further extension next year because, by spending the €200 million it has been allocated, the board will have made a sound investment in terms of supporting successful films. The economy can only benefit from the returns and tourism generated. Molaim an Bille.

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