Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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Question 226: To ask the Minister for Finance if he will set out the tax foregone by the Exchequer for film relief for the years 2009 and 2010; the estimated tax foregone due to film relief for 2011; if he will publish a cost benefit or similar analysis in respect of film relief; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48179/10]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the estimated amount of tax foregone by the Exchequer in respect of film relief for the years 2009 and 2010 is €42 million and €65 million respectively. The cost figure for 2010 is provisional and may be revised. Projections for tax receipts are based on assumed movements in macro-economic parameters and not by reference to the costs of individual tax reliefs. Accordingly, I am not in a position to provide the projected cost data requested by the Deputy for the year 2011 in relation to this relief.

In relation to the second part of the Deputy's question on cost-benefit analysis Indecon International Economic Consultants were engaged to undertake a review of Section 481 film relief in 2007. In light of the findings and recommendations of this review the relief was extended for a further four years to 2012.

The Commission on Taxation also considered Film Relief and recommended that it should be continued but should be subject to regular review. It is intended that such a review will be undertaken in advance of any adjustments or extension to the relief.