SDLP South Down MLA Karen McKevitt has welcomed news the government agency that oversees Northern Ireland’s film and television industry will receive a budget increase of more than 50% over the next four years.
Ms McKevitt, the SDLP’s Culture, Arts and Leisure spokesperson and a member of the Assembly’s DCAL committee, said the boost would “enhance opportunities to showcase Northern Ireland as a desirable filming location”.
She said: “In recent years, the natural beauty of the local landscape has been showcased in countless top movies and TV shows; including the international success ‘Game of Thrones’ and, just recently, the BAFTA winning movie ‘Philomena’.
“What we have on our doorstep is priceless and any move designed to encourage promotion of a fantastic natural asset on screen can only be welcomed; not just for those involved in the screen industry on a larger scale who want to come here, but also for emerging local talent in the industry and for the home grown talent that has witnessed success on the international stage.”
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