Who pays for creativity? Tax policy for creative industries

Join academics, policymakers and industry leaders to discuss tax policy for Ireland’s creative economy. Explore the policy issues shaping the development of tax policies for Ireland’s cultural and creative industries. This event will explore the critical intersection of policymaking and academic research – an area that remains underdeveloped in Ireland, particularly in relation to tax policy for the creative sector. Through an expert talk and panel discussion, participants will examine how tax policies are designed, evaluated and implemented, and consider their impact on the growth and sustainability of creative industries. The discussion will critically examine approaches to policy engagement and explore opportunities to strengthen collaboration between researchers, government and industry stakeholders. The event will bring together representatives from academia, the creative industries, government departments and key sectoral bodies, providing a valuable forum for sharing perspectives, addressing research gaps and influencing future policy development. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a timely conversation on the future of tax policy for Ireland’s creative industries and the role of evidence-informed policymaking in supporting the sector’s continued success. Organiser: Dr Maria O’Brien, Lecturer in Taxation, University of Galway Panel Chair: Delia Ferri MRIA, Professor of Law, Maynooth University Rapporteur: Dr Deirdre Flynn MYAI, Lecturer in 21st Century Literature, Mary immaculate College Keynote: Edith Sepp, Head of Estonian Film Institute A film and television director with experience in creative and strategic leadership roles, Edith Sepp’s career began in the late 1980s as an Assistant Director at Estonia’s state-run film studio, Tallinnfilm, followed by a Master’s degree in Film and TV Drama in the UK and work as a director and producer in Estonia and the UK. In 2010, she became Film Advisor to the Estonian Minister of Culture, leading the development of national film policy and, together with the industry, creating the first development plan looking ahead to 2030. The strategy has since been updated three times. Since 2013, as CEO of the Estonian Film Institute, she has led the development and internationalisation of Estonian film, introduced Film Estonia’s production incentive, established the Estonian Film and TV Awards, advanced the digitalisation of Estonia’s cinematic heritage and strengthened its international visibility. She is currently developing new studio infrastructure under EFI to strengthen Estonia’s production capacity and competitiveness and provide new opportunities for Estonian filmmakers. Beyond Estonia, she has held senior roles in European film organisations, including serving as Vice-President of the European Film Agency Directors’ Board (2018–2024) and representing Estonia in Eurimages and other European audiovisual institutions, including the European Audiovisual Observatory (EAO) and the Creative Throughout her career, Edith Sepp has remained dedicated to building a sustainable and internationally competitive audiovisual sector, with Estonian stories, talent and companies at its centre. Event generously co-sponsored by the University of Galway. Eolas faoi Acadamh Ríoga na hÉireann Is cumann léannta neamhspleách, uile-oileáin é Acadamh Ríoga na hÉireann, a bunaíodh sa bhliain 1785. Tacaíonn an tAcadamh le scoláireacht agus taighde sna heolaíochtaí, sna daonnachtaí agus sna heolaíochtaí sóisialta. 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