The government sets up a new national film board to support and promote the production of film in Ireland.
The establishment of the Irish Film Board was announced by Minister for Industry, Commerce and Tourism John Kelly.
For filmmakers here, the setting up of an Irish Film Board has long been something of a dream.
The establishment of the Irish Film Board will support and finance new films as well as attracting foreign filmmakers into the country. A question mark still hangs over exactly how much government funding the board will receive. Funding is expected to be substantially less than the £4 million mooted by the last government.
The newly appointed chairman Louis Heelan sets out the its objectives of the board.
The main objectives are to stimulate industry in Ireland.
Louis Heelan sees a role for Ardmore Studios and independent filmmakers. He is hopeful to see the production of more films like 'Excalibur', which was produced by John Boorman who is a member of the board.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 16 August 1981. The reporter is Alan McCullough.
