It’s a disappointing day for the Irish film industry as Filmbase, which has supported Irish filmmakers since 1986, announces its closure.

The not-for-profit resource centre for new and emerging filmmakers offered a public space where filmmakers could network, hire filmmaking equipment, take training courses and receive support and information about working within the Irish film industry.

It is based on Curved Street in Dublin’s Temple Bar.

A statement released from the centre today explained that “Filmbase has been fighting for many years against difficult financial circumstances and as a not for profit organisation that fight has always been a tough and challenging one. Debts which had accumulated at the organisation had reached a point where it was unrealistic for Filmbase to continue operations. This is a decision which has been reached with great sadness by all involved and the organisation will now move into Voluntary Liquidation.”

It continued: “From the beginning the ethos was to be a place rooted in the practice of making films with a hands-on approach. Writers, directors, producers, cinematographers, editors, actors and film technicians of all hues had a place and a community to belong to and all were welcome. It has evolved, changed and adapted over the years but at its heart it has always been a place for filmmakers.

“It would be impossible to acknowledge individually the vast numbers of people who have contributed in amazing and positive ways to supporting the work of Filmbase and, just as importantly, to enhancing the spirit of community. There is a huge debt of gratitude due to an enormous number of very special people and Filmbase would like to thank each and every one for their incredible generosity and support over the years. Filmbase would never have been the place it was without the many members, filmmakers and film artists who left their imprint and marks behind.”

The statement read that the “decision was reached with great sadness” and thanked the RTE, TG4, friends and colleagues across the whole of the film and arts communities, and the Arts Council for their support.

You can read it in full here.