Ireland is introducing a ground-breaking basic income scheme designed to support artists and creative workers. The initiative will provide €325 per week to 2,000 selected artists for three years, following the success of a nationwide pilot program.

🎨 A new model for supporting creativity

The Irish government created the scheme to give artists financial stability and allow them to focus on creative work. The payment remains taxable, yet it does not depend on artistic output. As a result, participants can plan ahead and reduce reliance on unrelated jobs.

The initiative welcomes applicants from a wide range of creative fields. Eligible participants include writers, actors, musicians, directors, designers, and visual artists.

An artist involved in the campaign supporting the policy described the change as transformative.

“It changes your relationship with banks, landlords and savings. The architecture of being a secure citizen becomes available.”

👩‍🎭 Artists describe life-changing impact

Participants from the earlier pilot scheme have already reported major benefits. Actor Aisling O’Mara explained that the payment allowed her to continue working in the industry while raising a child.

“Without it, I don’t think it would be feasible to stay in this industry.”

The stability also helped artists spend more time on auditions, preparation, and long-term creative projects. Consequently, several participants reported career growth and improved opportunities.

However, the scheme has limits. Only 2,000 artists will receive the payment during each cycle. More than 8,000 applicants applied during the pilot, so competition remains high.

📊 Evidence from the pilot programme

The government launched the original trial after the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted the arts sector. Officials later conducted a cost-benefit analysis, which showed strong results.

Researchers found that every €1 invested generated €1.39 in social and economic benefits.

Meanwhile, the government increased arts funding significantly. In 2026, the Arts Council will receive over €140 million, representing a 75% increase since 2020.

Supporters say the policy reflects the country’s cultural priorities.

“This is a new branch of funding and ideology around how art is valued culturally and socially.”

🔄 How the scheme will operate

The programme will run in three-year cycles. After completing one cycle, artists must wait before applying again. Therefore, the scheme aims to spread opportunities across the creative sector.

Officials have not confirmed whether the initiative will expand in future. However, leaders describe the programme as an important first step toward long-term artist support.

Most universal basic income pilots never progress beyond testing stages. Nevertheless, Ireland’s programme has moved into a more permanent structure. Advocates say this reflects the unique role of arts in Irish culture.

🌍 A global first in cultural policy

Supporters believe the scheme places Ireland at the forefront of arts funding innovation. The policy emerged after the pandemic highlighted the financial instability many artists face.

As a result, the programme aims to help creatives sustain careers and continue producing cultural work. The government sees the initiative as a way to strengthen the long-term cultural and economic value of the arts sector.