Dublin Docklands Cultural Forum supports Dublin Bay film studios proposal

The proposed ‘world class’ film studio facility on the Poolbeg peninsula would cost €80 million, and provide over 1,600 direct jobs, according to its backers.

Vincent McCabe, Creative Director of the Dublin Docklands Cultural Forum, stated his support for the project in a press release today.

‘’The Dublin Bay Studios proposal offers not only increased work prospects for Irish skills and talent at home but also a platform for international exposure whilst attracting the world's best talents to our shores The proposal offers professional opportunities for artists and the vast range of technicians, materials, supports, ancillary services and cultural enterprise at several levels which a vibrant film industry offers. The contribution to the exchequer would be substantial’’

‘’Movie Production within the Port and Docklands District would serve the continuing advancement of the locale generally, open opportunities for local jobs and access to the industry, and enrich the international cultural profile of Dublin.’’

‘’What more attractive prospect can there be to develop Dublin as the leading go-to Cultural Destination and Capital Port City in the world? With its superlative cultural legacy, its own International Movie Studios, Digital Sector, Financial and Legal services on its doorstep, a tunnel and port traffic infrastructure, enormous potential for entertainment and catering services to resurrect the Dublin Spirit of the Docklands - what could be more opportune, beneficial and timely?’’

The Dublin Bay Films Studios has received backing from major Hollywood figures, including Liam Neeson, Cillian Murphy and the CAA, Hollywood’s largest talent agency.

We all know that Irish creative talent - like @LiamNeesonActor - are world class. But for our industry to grow, we need more studio space! pic.twitter.com/HAlQ2gUqxI

— Dublin Bay Studios (@DublinBayStudio) January 9, 2017

Speaking in 2016, Neeson said that ‘’Dublin Bay Studios would position Ireland on the world stage as a centre of excellence for film and television.”

Ireland has gone through a golden age of Irish cinema in recent years with home produced films winning international recognition.

The film industry is worth over €550 million and directly employs over 6,000 people.

Several Hollywood productions have filmed on location in Ireland – most notably the Star Wars film franchise.

The chief executive of Dublin Port, Eamonn O’Reilly, previously described the proposal as ‘daft’ and ‘an attempt at a land-grab.’’ Dublin Port intends to use the land for expansion of its own activities in the future.