First Minister of Northern Ireland, Peter Robinson has told the Assembly that U.S. film and television companies presence have hugely benefited the economy and currently employ 800 people in the region.
 
The Stormont Executive investment £2.5 million into film has brought in almost £30 million to the economy, he explained.
 
He referred to the feature film “Your Highness” and the series “Game of Thrones” which were both filmed in Northern Ireland. He also commented on the massive success of “Sesame Tree” a locally made television series.
 
The Universal Pictures made movie, “Your Highness” brought in over £12 million in revenue with just £1 million investment from the Executive. The movie was made in Northern Ireland last year. It will star Natalie Portman, Zooey Deschanel, James Franco and Damian Lewis. It’s due to open in the U.S. in April and in Britain in June 2011.
 
The HBO series the “Game of Thrones” is currently being filmed in Northern Ireland. It is likely to bring in £17 million for the Northern Irish economy.
 
Mr Robinson said that an investment of £11 million into movies in Northern Ireland would see an estimated return of £140 million. A decision on this investment is expected by April 2011.