THE establishment of a film and television commission is part of a 10 year plan for the film and TV industry presented by Fianna Fail.
The party's spokeswoman on arts, culture and heritage, Ms Sile de Valera, said setting up the commission would involve widening the remit of the Film Board.
The new body would have additional powers in the development of TV drama, greater responsibility for sales and marketing through a Dublin office, responsibility for publicising Ireland as a film location and the provision of an information service to international film makers considering production in Ireland.
"We propose that the new commission, in conjunction with An Bord Trachtala, would bring some of the world's top film promoters and financiers on an information trip to Ireland," Ms de Valera said.
It would also set aside funds to assist co productions between Irish producers and their European counterparts.
Whereas the new commission would largely deal with "day today issues", Fianna Fail proposes setting up "an industry think tank that will set policy and examine ongoing developments".
The party also proposes a new training and education plan for the sector; greater co operation between the industry and colleges offering film and TV courses; and a feasibility study on a "dedicated film and television school".
In government, Fianna Fail would review the Section 35 provision giving tax relief to the film industry with a view to extending its use after the 1999 expiry date. The party also proposes a new tax relief for script and project development.
The artist must never be expected to be part of the establishment and the boat had to be rocked if change was to take place. "Under the current Government, that does not appear to be tolerated. I see a fear of stepping out of line by many in areas of arts, culture and heritage. I would be concerned that a domination by the cult of personality, combined with adulation and fear, is repressing the talented and creative mind," Ms de Valera said.