Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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I thank the Dáil and acknowledge the interest and support of Members for this technical but important Bill. It was really heartening to have the engagement and to hear so many of the TV shows and films that I watch being mentioned here today. It shows the fantastic talent that we have in Ireland and why it is so important that we continue to support the industry.

I am going to take a moment to respond to some of the queries and concerns raised here today. I thank Deputy Ó Snodaigh for his kind words about Screen Ireland and assure him that Department officials are in ongoing contact with Irish Equity and SIPTU in relation to the issues he raised.

Deputies Ó Snodaigh, Sheehan and Boyd Barrett raised the matter of section 481 tax relief. I confirm this is not part of this Bill and Screen Ireland has no competency in the area of tax. Screen Ireland gives grants and loans and, to be clear, is not involved in tax.

I thank Deputy Ó Murchú, who has arrived back just in time. We all love Irish productions and are proud of our talented creatives. I fully agree with him on that.

Deputy Sheehan spoke about "Sunphlowers", which premiered this year in July at the Galway Film Fleadh. It showcased north County Dublin at its best as well as the creative skills of the crew and the creatives involved. The Deputy also spoke about film in Limerick. I assure him that is part of the work and that Paul Ryan works with Screen Ireland. I also reassure Deputy Sheehan and his colleague in north Dublin that ongoing negotiations are happening with the developers regarding The Complex arts centre and that the Department is working to support those discussions.

I echo Deputy Devlin's deep condolences on the sad passing of Hugh Wallace. May he rest in peace. I send my condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. I thank Deputy Devlin for his comments and assure him the Minister, Deputy Patrick O'Donovan, is very committed to increasing a focus on gaming. The vast majority of Screen Ireland funding goes to the indigenous screen industries.

Deputy Boyd Barrett spoke about taxation and legislation, as I said. He also spoke about EU law, DAC and the industry test, which is part of the application process for tax relief. In terms of buyout contracts, the Screen Ireland copyright process includes the trade unions Irish Equity and SIPTU, employees, Screen Producers Ireland, Animation Ireland and the creative guilds representing directors, screenwriters and composers. They have all agreed guidelines on copyright and intellectual property rights. I hope that is welcome news.

Irish talent and Irish production companies supported by Screen Ireland have achieved outstanding international success over the last decade. Irish-originated films, TV drama, animation and documentaries have been enjoyed by audiences worldwide and have premiered at major international festivals. They have sold in every territory around the world and they have received critical acclaim and awards recognition at the highest levels. Major successful international films and TV dramas have also been produced across Ireland, generating a substantial contribution to the economy, providing significant employment and world-class skills development.

The Irish Film Board (Amendment) Bill 2025 has a single provision, to increase the statutory limit on the cumulative capital outlay, commitments and liabilities that may be incurred by Screen Ireland. I thank everyone who was involved in the Bill, including the Minister, Deputy Patrick O'Donovan, and his team and the officials who are with me today. I commend this Bill to the House.