We are pleased to share the key priorities outlined in our Pre-Budget Submission (2026) as we continue advocating for the long-term strength and sustainability of Ireland's independent screen production sector.
This year’s submission reflects our strategic focus on securing predictable public service funding, supporting regional growth, and reinforcing our global competitiveness while championing the cultural and economic value of independent Irish storytelling.
Goals of the Submission
Our five recommendations are underpinned by the vision of a thriving Irish audiovisual sector that features:
Increased indigenous productions developed and produced by Irish-based creators;
Greater ownership of intellectual property by Irish producers;
Expanded regional production capacity and job creation across Ireland;
Enhanced investment in talent and skills development;
Continued support for culturally Irish stories that resonate at home and abroad.
SPI’s 2026 Pre-Budget Recommendations
1. Public Service Media
Government to commit to continued multi-annual funding for RTÉ and TG4 from 2028 to 2030 to comply with the European Media Freedom Act.
RTÉ: SPI supports the introduction in the Broadcasting Amendment Bill 2025 of the requirement that RTÉ commits at least 25% of its public funding to the independent production sector. We want the quota to be fully implemented as soon as possible once the Bill has been passed, and reviewed every three years with a view to being increased.
SPI also supports the continuation of the Government's three-year multi-annual funding commitment to RTÉ for a further three years from 2028 to 2030.
TG4: SPI recommends that TG4 is given multi-annual PSM funding commitments as set out in the European Media Freedom Act.
TG4 should receive an additional €5M but our support for this increase is contingent on seeing the percentage increase reflected in percentage funding levels to Irish Language independent producers.
2. Regional Development
Government to introduce an 8% uplift for all productions filming outside the main production hub of Ireland.
3. Expansion of Scéal Uplift
Government to extend the Section 481 Scéal uplift to Irish creative documentary to ensure competitive parity with UK Independent Film Tax Credit (IFTC).
Government to continue to monitor developments with the IFTC in the UK to ensure parity of competitiveness between Ireland and the UK.
4. AVMSD Content Levy
Government to introduce the Coimisiún na Meán feasibility report variable levy recommendation of 5% for VOD revenues, 1% of ad revenue and 1% of pay-TV revenue without delay.
5. Screen Ireland
Government to increase Screen Ireland (SI) capital funding by €5M specifically for increased investment in indigenous Irish productions with explicit IP retention for Irish independent producers, across production and development. This increase in capital funding should also be met with increased current funding for staff and overheads to reflect the increased demands on the agency.
Our full submission can be read here.