A report has claimed Ireland's film and television drama industry could triple in size over the next ten years if tax incentives for film production remain.
The report, Realising the Potential of the Irish Film and Television Industry — A UniqueNational Asset, forecasts the industry could employ up to 11,000 people directly and contribute €500 million in expenditure by 2010, provided it receives adequate Government support.
The survey, commissioned by Screen Producers Ireland (formerly Film Makers Ireland), assesses the contribution of the Irish film and television drama industry to the Irish economy and identifies measures required to develop the future.
It states the industry achieved an average of 18 per cent annual growth over the past 10 years, employing 4,300 people directly and a further 3,000 through "the influence of film on the attractionof international tourists".
The industry contributes €107 million annually to Irish GDP and attracts an average of €136 millionannually through foreign inward investment, the report states.