Cannon says Oscar nominations prove finesse of Irish artistic talent

Minister for the Diaspora and International Development, Ciaran Cannon, has congratulated the Irish artists who have received nominations for their work for the 90th Academy Awards.

Minister Cannon said: “I am delighted that Daniel-Day-Lewis, Martin McDonagh and Saoirse Ronan have all received nominations for their work from the members of the Academy of Motion Picture Art and Sciences, while Cartoon Saloon’s ‘The Breadwinner’ and Irish costume designer Consolata Boyle have also received nominations for Best Animated Feature and Best Costume Design respectively.

“As the most iconic trophy in the international entertainment world, the Oscar represents the pinnacle of recognition by the film industry and it is wonderful to see Irish artists included among the nominees.

“It is particularly encouraging to see that Saoirse Ronan, at only 23-years of age, has received her third Oscar nomination for her role in Ladybird, having been previously nominated as Best Supporting Actress in Atonement (2008) and Best Actress in Brooklyn (2016).

“While these nominations are a tribute to the energies of each of these individuals, they are also proof of the finesse of Irish artistic talent and a strong signal that the stage-Irish depictions so prominent in the early days of Hollywood have long been relegated to the past.

“These artists have given true expression to the depth, breadth and skill of Irish creativity and their work reflects the cultural richness and diversity of our Irish communities worldwide.

“I extend my warmest congratulations to them, their families and colleagues in the entertainment industry.”

ENDS