A new feature film on the legendary screen dog Lassie is be shot in Ireland, it was announced today.
The movie, which will be based on Eric Knight's best-selling 1938 novel Lassie Come Home, is expected to begin shooting in April.
The movie's US producers Classic Media and Firstsight Films said part of the filming will also take place on the Isle of Man.
The famed dog has already featured in ten films, some of which starred Hollywood legends including Elizabeth Taylor, Mickey Rooney and Jimmy Stewart, and over 675 half-hour television episodes.
The television series was one of the longest running programmes in history.
Minister for Arts, Sport & Tourism, Mr O'Donoghue said: "I am delighted that Classic Media and Firstsight Films have chosen Ireland."
"It demonstrates again the importance of our tax incentive Section 481 which has been extended and enhanced and demonstrates the Government's ongoing commitment to the Irish film industry".
Classic Media chairman, Mr Eric Ellenbogen said: "We are very excited to begin shooting the new Lassie movie in Ireland."
"The county's lush green landscape and rolling hills provide the perfect backdrop for Lassie's epic film journey."