17 June 2010

CAL 15/09/10

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE GAINS INSIGHT INTO FILM INDUSTRY

The promotion of Northern Ireland as a top venue for film-makers was top of the agenda at today’s meeting of the Northern Ireland Assembly Committee for Culture, Arts and Leisure.

During the meeting, the Committee heard from NI Screen on the development of a dynamic and sustainable screen industry and culture in Northern Ireland. The Committee also discussed ways to showcase local talent and culture.

Chair of the Committee Barry McElduff, MLA said: “We know that the arts and language are important to local people. As a Committee we are committed to the development of a language strategy and we recently completed an inquiry into the funding of the arts.

“The Committee was delighted to hold its meeting in the vibrant setting of Cultúrlann in the heart of the Gaeltach Quarter and was impressed with the work of NI Screen on how the film industry and culture can be developed and sustained.”

The Committee received a b riefing from the Cultúrlann Director and a tour of the building including plans for the new extension. A musical interlude in Irish was provided by a group of local singers.

ENDS

Committee Membership:

Mr. Barry McElduff MLA (Chairperson)
Mr. PJ Bradley MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
The Lord Browne of Belmont
Mr. Thomas Burns
Mr. Trevor Clarke
Mr. Billy Leonard
Mr. Kieran McCarthy
Mr. Raymond McCartney
Mr. David McClarty
Ms. Michelle McIlveen
Mr. Ken Robinson

For further information contact:

Caroline Moore, Northern Ireland Assembly,
Communications Office
Telephone – 028 90 521806
Mobile: 07900 053926
Website Address – archive.niassembly.gov.uk
Email – caroline.moore@ niassembly.gov.uk