Michael McCarthy (Labour)

I welcome the legislation. As it requires us to enact legislation co-operatively at short notice, we should not get any plaudits for it. One can be proud of the Irish film industry which has grown because a movie-making infrastructure is in place. Much money is available to pursue further development in this industry. "Ryan's Daughter" was important for County Kerry's tourism industry and that has not been lost on the Minister.

We have had a host of talented people in the Irish film industry who have brought their expertise to the silver screen at home and across the world. One only needs to look at Brenda Fricker and her outstanding role in "My Left Foot" for which she won an Oscar. The Gabriel Byrnes and the Patrick Bergins have gone on to build successful international careers, based on the home expertise that developed them. We must acknowledge the role played by local drama societies and those who organise them. That offers an opportunity for people who might not necessarily develop their talent in the absence of these groups. It is good today to look back on outstandingly successful films. Consider the film "Braveheart", many of whose scenes were shot in The Curragh. Members of the FCA and people from all over the country were used as stand-ins in that film. That was an important film. There is only one instance in recent times where a film being made in Ireland was not completed. It was "Divine Rapture" and was to star the late Marlon Brando, who stayed in Ballycotton for the shoot. Unfortunately, owing to other problems the film was not finished.

We must not forget the importance of the Irish film industry in international terms and how it is viewed by the international community. We were able to take advantage of this not just in terms of culture but also with regard to tourism. Consider what "The Quiet Man" and Maureen O'Hara did for Irish tourism. The film put the country on the international stage and opened doors that might not have been opened otherwise. We can be proud of that.

The Irish film industry is also not afraid to delve into darker issues in the history of this country. Consider the work of Aidan Quinn, who has mainly made independent films, and the thought-provoking, emotive but truthful account of what happened in Irish institutions in the film "Song for a Raggy Boy". In the interest of fairness and balance we must acknowledge that and praise those involved in it. Other independent films such as "This is My Father" also reflect part of Irish culture and society and show how society has moved on from that time. We have much reason to be thankful to people who have practised in this profession.

This is good legislation. Its inspiration and objective are clear. From small acorns do big trees grow and undoubtedly this is a good opportunity to develop and promote another generation of actors and actresses who can continue to represent all that is good in this country in terms of culture and tourism. Well done to those who have already done it. We owe them a great deal. I welcome the legislation and thank the Minister for debating it with us.