FG in Govt progresses digital gaming policy initiated in Opposition – Donohoe

28th February, 2013

Donohoe opens digital gaming conference in recognition of contribution made to industry

 

Speaking ahead of the launch of the Games Ireland Gathering in the Aviva Stadium this evening (Thursday), Fine Gael Dublin Central Deputy, Paschal Donohoe TD, commended the Government for the work it has done to advance the digital gaming industry but said more can be done to further the sector.

“I was delighted to be asked to open the Games Ireland Gathering this evening as I have been committed to the development of the sector for years now and have been deeply involved in moving the gaming agenda on.

“This conference will see leading local and multinational gaming companies coming together to discuss advances within the industry and the best way to progress the expansion of the sector.

“Fine Gael in Opposition recognised the potential of the digital gaming industry and the important role it could play in Ireland’s future economic recovery. During the General Election 2011 campaign, I launched a policy document entitled ‘Helping Ireland Win in the Next Wave of Digital Entertainment’ which set out a policy platform for the future growth of the sector. This support of the sector has since been translated into action since the Government came to Office.

“The Government’s commitment to the sector is evidenced by the commissioning of a strategy document by Forfás, which is being implemented by a cluster group in the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Richard Bruton’s department. This group is comprised of industry representatives, among others, who are best placed to communicate the needs of the industry. Changes have also been made in relation to greater grant support for digital gaming start-ups in Ireland and to support Enterprise Ireland and IDA in their efforts to bring in foreign direct investment the digital sector here.

“But there is much more to be done. The further integration of third level courses with the needs of industry would ensure that we are producing the graduates that the sector needs. It could also facilitate an easier transition from third level to the workforce, ensuring that our graduates hit the ground running. Consideration also needs to be given to how best to support content creation in Ireland, which would not only see games being designed here but the whole gaming project being brought to fruition in Ireland. This sector has infinite potential. It is up to us to support and harness it for the sake of much needed job creation.”