Ibec's Audiovisual Federation applauds Irish Oscar nominees
The Audiovisual Federation, the Ibec group that represents the audiovisual sector in Ireland, welcomed the Irish Oscar nominations and called for a renewed focus on the audiovisual sector's long term developmental needs.
Audiovisual Federation Director Torlach Denihan said: "Following on the sector's successes last year, today's Oscar nominations further strengthen the credentials of Ireland’s audiovisual industry. This track record justifies the recent announcement by An Taoiseach and the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs of a project on Ireland's potential to be a global leader in film production, television drama, documentary, children's storytelling and animation for the screen.
"While there is strong momentum within Ireland’s audiovisual sector, it is essential that Government confirm the extension of the Section 481 tax based production incentive beyond 2020 because film and television productions have lengthy planning horizons.
"The continued restoration of adequate funding to the Irish Film Board should also continue so that the wealth of indigenous Irish talent can be nurtured and given every opportunity to thrive.
"Improved television licence fee collection should be prioritised to help stabilise the funding of public service broadcasting because this sector is a crucial source of work for independent film producers.
"While the sector is a priceless part of our contemporary cultural output that enhances Ireland’s profile and international reputation, it also makes a significant direct economic contribution. For instance some 20% of tourists cite film or television as the reason for their visit to Ireland. A strategic approach to the industry is needed so as to capitalise on its strong potential for further growth.
“With enough support and planning we can build on the current run of success and make Ireland an even more attractive location for film and television production so that the potential of Ireland’s talent pool can be maximised.”