Basic Income for the Arts: New Permanent Scheme Open, €325 Weekly

A pilot program launched in 2022 offered artists a guaranteed weekly income of €325 for three years. The initiative attracted significant interest, with over 8,000 applications received for the 2,000 available slots. The Basic Income for the Arts pilot program concluded in February, prompting the Department of Culture to conduct a review before establishing a new, permanent scheme, which is now accepting applications.

The permanent scheme will again support 2,000 artists, selected through a lottery system without qualitative assessment. The weekly payment will remain at €325. Key changes include enhanced oversight, with regular audits to ensure recipients are actively engaged in artistic production. Furthermore, the names of participating artists will be made publicly available.

Despite the generally positive reception of the scheme, believed to be a global first, not all feedback has been favorable. Irish Times journalist Órla Ryan, through a freedom-of-information request, uncovered some discontent. Ryan's reporting explores the reasons behind the pilot program's popularity and examines the modifications implemented as it transitions into a permanent initiative.

The report is presented by Bernice Harrison and produced by John Casey.