Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

A number of measures in the new programme for Government relate to the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism. I wish to inquire about two of these, both of which the Minister of State mentioned. One was the wording of the commitment to the film industry generally. This is an area of interest to the Green Party because it is noted as a contributor to the smart economy. The programme states, "We will ensure that the supports provided by the Film Board are maintained". However, one of the things about which the arts community is concerned is that the Irish Film Board itself be maintained and that the funding should not come from some other Department. It was suggested in the McCarthy report that it would go to Enterprise Ireland.

It would be catastrophic for the film industry if this were to happen. I do not know if the Minister of State is aware that the Minister, Deputy Cullen, is of the same view. Years of experience, expertise, knowledge and international credibility now reside in the film board-----

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