John Cummins (Waterford, Fine Gael)

I acknowledge the very strong interest that has been shown in this short technical piece of legislation. It has given us the opportunity to have a wider discussion about the importance of the screen and audiovisual sectors, and the wider arts sector. It is an area that I place a strong value on myself. I have worked in the arts sector in the past, both in the Theatre Royal in Waterford and in the concert hall in Limerick. I have been involved in some productions as well.

Senator Scahill referenced the breadth of involvement in productions as a whole. It is not just the actors, but the cast, the support crew, the construction of the sets and all the associated areas - catering, hospitality, and tourism - as Senator Conway just referenced. The impact is far wider than the small piece of the actual production itself. There is no doubt that we are punching above our weight in this country, but obviously we need to maintain it, build on it and not rest on our laurels because there are parts of the world that want a piece of what we have. We must preciously guard what we have and support the producers in our country that are producing content of the highest quality.

I think of small productions and my own area in Waterford and An Rinn in the Gaeltacht. Companies in the area collaborate with Nemeton TV. A whole ecosystem has built up around that. Senator Noonan referred to Cartoon Saloon and Kilkenny. Other speakers referenced the strong ecosystems that had been built up all across the country.

In response to Senator Ní Chuilinn's comment on the regional uplift, which ceased in 2023, it is hoped that the unscripted tax relief will increase the regional production piece. I am sure it is something the Minister, Deputy O'Donovan, will engage further on in budgets to come.

Senator McCarthy referenced delays. It is important to note that Screen Ireland has had a dramatic increase in the demands on its resources. Hence, the Bill that is before us here this evening. Additional funding has been provided for staffing to ensure the timely processing of applications to Screen Ireland.

There are differing views on the content level. That was raised by Senator Andrews. I will leave it at that.

Other matters that were raised included section 481, which both Senators Cosgrove and Scahill mentioned. It is important to say that quality employment terms are attached to section 481. An undertaking must be made on quality employment and there is a code of behaviour to ensure dignity at work for everyone as part of that. I take on board the points made. The officials are listening carefully to what has been said, for example, about the two producers in Roscommon who were referenced. Track record is part of the criteria. I hope the strong track record that they are building can be rewarded into the future.

I genuinely thank all Senators for their contributions. I also thank the officials within the Department for bringing forward the Irish Film Board (Amendment) Bill 2025, which contains a single provision to increase the statutory limit. It is the intention of the Minister, Deputy O'Donovan, to bring forward further proposals to amend the Irish Film Board Act, including the expansion of the board in the new year. While it is separate to this Bill, it is obviously connected. We look forward to getting this legislation enacted as quickly as possible.