The animated film and television sector has called on the government to extend tax relief benefits so Ireland can continue to produce “world class” animation.
The Section 418 tax credit, which is due to run until 2024, allows up to a 35% tax credit for films, television dramas, animations and creative documentaries produced in Ireland.
To receive tax relief, producers must apply to the Minister of Culture, Heritage and Geltacht.
Animation Ireland, the business group representing Ireland’s animation studios, has called for this relief to run until 2029 as part of an advance budget submission.
Ronan McCabe, Chief Executive Officer of Animation Ireland, said the bailout would bring huge numbers of jobs and spending to Ireland, with 42 animation studios and 2,500 employees across the country.
“Section 481 has been integral to the growth of the animation sector over the last decade and without it we would not be able to compete on the global stage as we do now,” he said.
“Relief will not only bring huge numbers of jobs and spending to Ireland, but it will also have a huge positive impact on creativity and culture.”
McCabe said without the tax cuts, animation like an Oscar-nominated wolf walker Impossible.
“We hope the Finance Minister will announce a five-year extension of the relief measures until 2029 and confirm that Section 481 will be included as part of the long-term policy for the creative industries.
“We also hope to expand the regional uplift component of the relief, which will allow more production outside of Dublin, make it easier for research to attract staff, and create jobs in rural towns. .”
Over the last few years, Ireland has been home to several major animation productions. bob’s burgers movie, cuphead show, Vampirina and Zog, When Flying Doctors.
