Film crews set to roll, as RTE's ‘The Unreal’ headed for Inishowen
“It's fantastic to see another major television production choosing Inishowen as its filming location – there's no better place”
Inishowen is set to take centre stage on national television later this month, with RTÉ children's drama ‘The Unreal’ choosing the peninsula as the filming location for its upcoming third series.
Welcoming the announcement, Redress Party County Councillor Joy Beard said it was fantastic to see another major television production coming to the area, describing it as a significant boost for both the local economy and Inishowen's growing reputation as a premier film and television destination.
The supernatural family comedy-drama is expected to begin filming across Inishowen from July 27, with production remaining in the area for around four weeks.
Information released by the Donegal Film Office states that the production has a budget of more than €1 million and will create opportunities for local cast members, crew, trainees and emerging talent, while also providing a welcome economic boost for the area.
“It's fantastic to see another major television production choosing Inishowen as its filming location – there's no better place,” Cllr Beard said.
“This is excellent news for our local economy. A production of this scale will support accommodation providers, cafés, restaurants, shops, transport services, and many other local businesses, while also creating opportunities for local actors, crew members, trainees and those working in the creative industries.”
She said productions like ‘The Unreal’ also provide invaluable exposure for the peninsula's spectacular scenery.
“Just as importantly, productions like this showcase the spectacular scenery we have here in Inishowen and bring it to a wider audience, hopefully encouraging people to come and see it for themselves.”
“We are getting a great reputation as a film and TV location, and every successful production filmed here helps strengthen our reputation as a destination for film, television and tourism.”
The Donegal Film Office has advised that some temporary stop-go traffic management systems will be in operation on days when filming is taking place.
These will be managed by the production's locations team and road traffic management personnel, working with the relevant roads and beach management authorities to minimise disruption to local communities.
Cllr Beard appealed to the public for patience while filming is underway, saying the long-term benefits for the area make any temporary inconvenience worthwhile.
“I would like to extend a very warm Inishowen welcome to everyone involved in the production, and I wish the cast and crew every success during their time here,” she said.