Minister Costello welcomes reopening of Lighthouse Cinema Smithfield

13 January 2012

by Cllr Joe Costello

Minister of State for Trade and Development, Joe Costello, T.D., today welcomed news that the Lighthouse Cinema in Smithfield is to reopen.

"This announcement is brilliant news not only for the Irish film industry but also for the local Smithfield area. I commend the work done by Minister for Arts Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Jimmy Deenihan T.D., in his work to engage key stakeholders which led to the reopening of this cinema, after its unfortunate closure last April.

"I am delighted that the reopening of this cinema will be marked by the hosting of the annual Jameson Dublin International Film Festival. The nominations for this year's Irish Film and Television Awards show that we have much talent to showcase in film, drama, documentary and animation, and with the re-opening of the Lighthouse Cinema we can ensure that this wealth and diversity of talent, will continue to have a platform in our Capital City.

"When the cinema closed its door last year, 20 people lost their jobs, as well as leading to a loss of revenue for surrounding local businesses. Now rehiring, I am hopeful that its reopening will help in the ongoing regeneration of the Smithfield area by increasing valuable footfall. I would like to wish the Lighthouse Cinema all the very best for the future."