Animation Ireland welcomes the increase of the Irish Film Board’s budget by €2 million announced by Irish Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Heather Humphreys TD.
The capital budget allocation for Bord Scannán na hÉireann/the Irish Film Board (IFB) in 2016 was €11,202,000, and this has been increased to €12,702,000 in 2017. The administration budget of €3,269,000 is increased to €3,769,000.
Commenting on the budget increase Dr. Annie Doona, IFB Chair said “The Irish Government has recognised the achievement of Irish filmmakers and have demonstrated their commitment to the future of the Irish film, television and animation sectors. We wish to thank Minister Humphreys in particular for her continued support and increased funding.”
“Earlier this year, the IFB Board called for a restoration of IFB funding to 2008 levels of €20 million, which we believe is critical to building on the current success of the industry and remains a key element to the IFB strategic plan over the next five years. At our current reduced budget levels, the IFB has invested in projects which have won major international acclaim, connected with Irish audiences and generated $150 million at the global box office over the last 18 months. We welcome today’s budget increase and remain ambitious in our vision and future goals for the sector.”
Ireland received 9 Oscar nominations at the 2016 Academy Awards and on the back of major global hits including Room, Brooklyn, Sing Street, Love & Friendship, The Lobster, and animation films Song of the Sea and Two By Two, Irish films have taken an impressive $145 million at the worldwide box office alone in 2015/16, with audience figures estimated in the region of 18 million admissions. Recent local hits include The Young Offenders, A Date for Mad Mary,Older than Ireland and Bobby Sands: 66 Days which have gone down a storm with Irish audiences and critics. The Irish animation sector has gone from strength to strength and is a central component of Ireland’s digital and creative economy, employing 1,600 full-time staff.
