Andrew Doyle, Fine Gael TD for Wicklow/Carlow East has spoken in the Dail on the need to put appropriate measures in place to support Ireland’s film industry which is set to make gains with the newly enhanced Section 481 film tax credit scheme and has spoken of the employment spin-offs for the local Wicklow economy that would follow.
“Improvements to the Film Tax Relief Scheme in Budget 2015 –Section 481 – will have a positive impact overall on the industry and the Government is being applauded for creating a good environment to attract productions but a shortage of studio space is proving to be a key element in our ability to ensure continued international investment.
“The need for the expansion of vital film studio infrastructure is apparent. The fees that exist under the current Planning and Development Regulations for studio space are proving prohibitive as these studios are treated the same as commercial premises of the same scale. My suggestion is that film studios be allocated a new class under the regulations.
“There is strong international interest in Ireland as a production location due to the positive tax incentives under Section 481 but the film industry is highly mobile and with New Zealand and some parts of Eastern Europe being highly active, there is the risk of revenue being lost due to the lack of availability of appropriate full service studio space in the country.
“There is considerable room for rapid and significant growth in the film and television industries in Ireland and the associated benefits to the local and national economy in terms of employment, export potential and also tourism and reputational wealth created by this sector.
“County Wicklow, as the headquarters of the film industry in Ireland stands to gain if the proper incentives are put in place to boost this very significant sector. Being less than an hour from Dublin with the backdrop of picturesque mountains, valleys and breathtaking scenery, Wicklow continues to be a very popular location for film makers.
“There is recognition of the value of the industry to Ireland given the tax incentives over the last number of years but more needs to be done. I will be following up with Minister Kelly to highlight the difficulties that are currently hindering the development of this vital industry.”