Alison Comyn (Fianna Fail)

Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire Stáit. I welcome the Bill and appreciate the opportunity to speak in my role as Seanad spokesperson for arts, culture and media. I begin by reflecting on what this Bill represents because too often technical amendments are treated as dry procedural matters, but this one carries significant weight. It speaks to the kind of country that we want to be, the value we place on our creative industries and our belief in the power of Irish storytelling. In the past few years, we have seen a renaissance in Irish film that has caught the world's attention. "The Quiet Girl" is an example of one of those most extraordinary cultural achievements of modern Ireland - a modest and deeply human Irish language story that travelled the world, moved audiences everywhere and made history as the first Irish language film ever nominated for an Academy Award. That kind of breakthrough changes global perceptions about us, not just of our film industry but of our language, culture and capacity to create work of profound emotional power. Then came "Kneecap", which exploded onto the global stage; a film that electrified audiences and critics alike to say the least. Supported in development by Screen Ireland, it brought a new unapologetically modern Irish voice to international cinema. Its triumph at the British Independent Film Awards marked yet another moment where Irish talent stood proud on a global platform and said, "We are here. We are relevant. We are original." These achievements are not outliers, they are the results of decades of strategic investment by Screen Ireland and our policymakers in first-time film makers, regional production, animation, documentary, Irish language cinema and diverse and emerging voices. Even in my own region, we have the Boyne Valley International Film Festival every year - a vibrant festival. They are throughout the country. This extra funding will help to bring a little of injection and life to those.

Of course, I agree that we need to have that regional uplift as well to spread the love across the country. These investments build an ecosystem that allows talent to develop, from short films right across to features, from local screens to international distribution, from early ambition to world-class audiences. This is why the Bill that is before us matters so much. Although technical in appearance, it is essential in practice. By raising the statutory ceiling on Screen Ireland's cumulative commitments, we are ensuring the agency can continue funding the projects, training, productions and innovations that underpin our entire screen sector.

The previous limit has been reached, which is itself a sign of success. The Irish screen industry has expanded dramatically. With that expansion comes a need for a more modernised legislative framework. Without this Bill, Screen Ireland would be constrained at precisely the moment when demand for Irish stories is growing, when international studios want to work here and when Irish talent is flourishing. Raising the ceiling ensures continuity. It ensures that projects already in development can move forward, that emerging talent is not lost, that inward investment continues at pace, and that Ireland remains competitive in a global industry where investment is mobile and opportunities can far too easily slip away. It places a huge responsibility on us. With increased capacity, must come increased oversight. We have to ensure that Screen Ireland continues to invest transparently, strategically and in line with its mission to support cultural expression and creative excellence. Public confidence and trust are essential. Screen Ireland has earned that trust through its extensive track record.

We should also recognise the broader impact of this sector. Film and television productions support thousands of skilled jobs, such as writers, directors, grips, carpenters, engineers, costume designers, editors and post-production specialists.This sector drives regional development. Not just Dublin, as was mentioned, and Wicklow but also Galway, my own county of Louth, Clare and Donegal have benefited from productions that bring employment, tourism and economic activity.

The Minister of State mentioned animation. That is one of our great global successes. It continues to win awards right around the world and employs hundreds of highly skilled artists and technicians. Irish documentaries are thriving on international platforms as only we can tell our own unique stories. Our studios are expanding and Irish creative workers are in demand right around the world. This Bill ensures that momentum continues.

Finally, we have to look towards the future. The global screen industry is undergoing rapid transformation. New technologies, new platforms, new audiences and, of course, artificial intelligence poses both opportunities and risks. Virtual production is reshaping how films are made and watched and the demand for diverse storytelling has never been greater. If Ireland is to remain at the forefront, we need to make sure our funding structures are flexible, modern and capable of supporting that innovation.

This amendment gives Screen Ireland the ability to respond to that changing landscape. It is not glamorous but it is vital. It ensures that our film industry is not restricted by outdated ceilings but empowered by forward-thinking and forward-looking legislation. It ensures that the next generation of Irish film makers, whoever and wherever they may be, can make their mark, tell their stories and represent Ireland on the world stage.

For all those reasons, I strongly support the Bill and I commend its intent to sustain and grow a sector that enriches our culture, strengthens our economy and elevates Ireland’s voice right around the world.