Tourism Ireland today launched phase three of its special Star Wars campaign, targeting fans of the science fiction franchise around the world.

It involves another superb, specially-commissioned ‘behind-the-scenes’ film, created during the filming of Star Wars: The Force Awakens on Skellig Michael in 2014.

Tourism Ireland commissioned Lucasfilm to create this short film in which Star Wars actors, the director JJ Abrams and other crew members discuss why they chose this special location for filming.

Scenes for the next film, Star Wars: Episode VIII, are also being shot on location along the Wild Atlantic Way.

“Ireland has become an important part of Star Wars history,” said Candice Campos, vice president of Physical Production at Lucasfilm.

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Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Paschal Donohoe TD, said: “Star Wars: The Force Awakens was one of the most eagerly anticipated films for years.

“To have our phenomenal landscape feature so prominently in it filled Irish hearts with pride and gave the rest of the world a taste of what we have to offer.

“Phase three of Tourism Ireland’s special Star Wars campaign builds on that and will further encourage people to visit us in greater numbers and continue the success we have seen in the tourism sector in recent years.

“It will also, crucially, reward fans with new behind-the-scenes footage, which, I have no doubt, will be the source of much enjoyment for many.”

Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland, said: “Since its release, Star Wars: The Force Awakens film has been breaking box office records everywhere and Tourism Ireland has been capitalising on this positive exposure, highlighting the Star Wars connection with Ireland and bringing the magnificent scenery of Skellig Michael and the Wild Atlantic Way to the attention of millions of people everywhere.”

Tourism Ireland will share this latest film in 14 different markets – including Britain, the United States, Canada, Germany France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, the Nordic region, Australia, New Zealand, India, the GCC and South Africa and via social media.