asked the Taoiseach the proposals, if any he has to assist the development of an indigenous Irish film industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

2.

asked the Taoiseach the plans and proposals, if any, he has to assist the entertainments industry in Ireland as promised during the election campaign; the proposals, if any, he has to establish a body to draw up an overall plan for the development of this industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1 and 2 together.

It is my view that the entertainment industry in Ireland is an example of an indigenous industry which out of its own natural abilities and enterprise has developed and expanded remarkably. It is for this reason that we identified in our election programme the need for a comprehensive policy for the industry to help its further growth and expansion. Representatives of the industry have put certain proposals to me and those proposals are at present being examined and I expect to have a report on this examination fairly soon.

Is the Taoiseach aware that the Irish Film Board put a proposition in regard to the extension of the small businesses plan to the Taoiseach's Department and that they were supported by the Taoiseach's predecessor? Has this been incorporated in the present Finance Bill, and if not, will the Taoiseach take steps to have it incorporated by way of amendment?

The whole area is under examination.