New Film Mayo programme rolls out to boost screen industry in the West
Major boost for filmmaking and screen industry development across Mayo
Mayo County Council is set to officially launch Film Mayo and the new Mayo County Council Film Bursary at a special event in the Town Hall Theatre, Westport, on Monday, June 22, 2026.
The initiative will be officially launched by Alan Dillon, Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment.
The launch marks a significant investment in the future of filmmaking and screen sector development across the county.
The initiative also represents Mayo County Council’s continued commitment to supporting creative talent, attracting production activity, and strengthening Mayo’s reputation as a filming destination.
A key feature of the event will be the unveiling of the newly updated Film Mayo website, designed to provide filmmakers, producers and industry professionals with information on filming opportunities, locations and supports available throughout the county.
The event will also see the introduction of the Mayo County Council Film Bursary, a new funding initiative aimed at supporting filmmakers working in Mayo. Full details of the bursary criteria and application process will be announced during the launch, with applications expected to close in mid-July 2026.
Filmmakers, producers, creatives and those working in the screen industry are being encouraged to attend the event to learn more about the bursary and the wider supports available through Film Mayo.
One of the highlights of the programme will be a panel discussion titled “Made Here – A Conversation about Film, Place & Practice.” Moderated by Niamh Fagan of Screen Ireland. The discussion will feature contributions from Alan Friel, Gar O’Brien, Martina Niland, Jennifer Davidson and Lochlainn O’Mearain.
The panel will explore the importance of place in storytelling, the growth of regional filmmaking, and the opportunities available for screen industry development in Mayo and the wider West of Ireland.
The event will also host the inaugural meeting of the Mayo Film Collective, an initiative led by Western Front Studios aimed at fostering collaboration, networking and creative partnerships among filmmakers throughout the county.
The programme is supported by Creative Ireland and is expected to attract filmmakers and industry stakeholders from across the region.
The launch of Film Mayo and the new bursary scheme is expected to provide a significant platform for local talent.
Those wishing to attend the launch are asked to RSVP by June 18 by emailing [email protected].