Forestry service branches out into movie business

Ireland’s forestry service has branched out into the movie business, aiming to grow revenue by becoming the country’s biggest supplier of outdoor TV and film locations.

If it succeeds, it could also boost Ireland’s tourist industry, as one fifth of overseas visitors come here after seeing the country portrayed on screen.

Arts and Heritage Minister Jimmy Deenihan yesterday launched an online portfolio of Coillte properties designed to woo Hollywood movie makers and television broadcasters.