Actors Kerry Condon and Paul Mescal are among a number of Irish people who have been invited to become members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in the US.

The AMPAS is the organisation that runs the Academy Awards.

The Academy has said it is extending invitations to 398 artists and executives who "have distinguished themselves by their contributions to motion pictures."

Both Condon and Mescal were nominated for Oscars this year - Condon for The Banshees of Inisherin and Mescal in Aftersun.

Oscar statuettes to be presented to winners at an Academy Award presentation in 2008. Picture by: Richard Levine / Alamy Stock Photo

An Cailín Ciúin director Colm Bairéad has also been invited to join.

Mr Bairéad is one of the few individuals who has invited by multiple branches - either as a director or a writer.

They must select one branch on accepting their membership.

In a tweet, he said he was 'truly honoured'.

Truly honoured to have been invited to join @TheAcademy! Only wish I could see my teenage self’s reaction! 🤯 pic.twitter.com/g4SNfuZXdt

— Colm Bairéad (@ColmBairead) June 28, 2023

Irish cinematographer Kate McCullough has also been invited to join.

Invitations have also been extended to filmmakers Tom Berkeley and Ross White, who are responsible for the short film An Irish Goodbye.

Those who accept will be able to vote for the Oscar nominations and winners going forward.

"The Academy is proud to welcome these artists and professionals into our membership," Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang said in a statement.

"They represent extraordinary global talent across cinematic disciplines and have made a vital impact on the arts and sciences of motion pictures and on movie fans worldwide".

General view ahead of the 89th Academy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles in 2017. Picture by: Lionel Hahn/ABACAPRESS.COM

The list includes actors, directors, writers, producers, musicians and executives.

"Membership selection is based on professional qualifications, with an ongoing commitment to representation, inclusion and equity remaining a priority," the AMPAS explained.

"Of the 2023 class, 40% identify as women, 34% belong to underrepresented ethnic/racial communities, and 52% are from 50 countries and territories outside the United States".

There are 76 Oscar nominees, including 22 winners, among the invitees.