THE creative industries are leading the way in creating jobs and helping to rebalance and grow Northern Ireland’s economy, according to First Minister Peter Robinson.
He was speaking at a recent event in Parliament Buildings to celebrate the work of Cinemagic, which aims to create opportunities for young people through film and television.
Cinemagic has engaged with thousands of young people from different backgrounds across Northern Ireland and further afield for the past 24 years, mentoring and guiding them in the processes of filmmaking and introducing them to new films.
Cinemagic chief executive, Joan Burney Keatings, MBE, said: “The evening celebrated the achievements of young people who have participated in various Cinemagic projects and events over the last year.
“We were delighted to be able to host the event in Parliament Buildings with the support of OFMDFM.
“The work that the young people have produced will motivate and inspire other young people who are interested in the film and television industries.”
First Minister Peter Robinson said: “The Northern Ireland Executive is committed to investing in our creative industries sector and to building on our growing reputation across the globe as a world-class venue for the leading film and TV companies such as HBO and Universal, to locate.
The creative industries are leading the way in creating jobs and helping to rebalance and grow Northern Ireland’s economy.
“I commend the hard work, enthusiasm and creativity of all the young people involved with Cinemagic. Tonight’s event is a great opportunity to showcase the skills and talent of our young people who are being given the confidence to realise their dreams, with the help and encouragement from those who are directly involved in the creative industries.”
Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness added: “The creative industry is one of the fastest growing industries in our economy and the recent successes of HBO’s production of Game of Thrones here and major Hollywood films like Dracula show our appeal as a filming location.
“This is good, for our global image as a creative industry hub, for our tourism and also for our economy.”