Plan to make Galway a ‘global leader’ in film and TV

An ambitious plan has been unveiled to position Galway as a “global leader” in the film and TV industry.

It has the potential to create hundreds of jobs and generate tens of millions of euro each year for the local economy.

Already, the industry employs 600 people in Galway, and is worth €72 million.

As part of its pre-election €250 million ‘West Action Plan for Jobs’, the Government has earmarked the film industry here as a ‘priority commitment’.

A new Regional Film Fund is also being considered, with Galway set to be the biggest beneficiary, thanks to its UNESCO City of Film Status.

Industry chiefs locally believe the new plans contained in the 110-page Action Plan could prove a ‘game changer’.

Declan Gibbons, Director of Galway UNESCO said the very real commitment by Government would further develop the film sector in the West.

“This great news adds to our designation as a UNESCO City of Film, and offers significant potential for further growth, and for Galway to become a global player in this industry.”

For more on the proposals, see this week’s Galway City Tribune