Charles Esther
Ireland’s groundbreaking Basic Income for the Arts pilot program is set to conclude in August 2025, marking the end of a three-year initiative that provided financial support to 2,000 artists and creative workers. Launched in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the scheme offered a glimpse into what a Universal Basic Income (UBI) could mean for the creative sector—and perhaps society at large.
A Lifeline for Artists and Creatives
The program, introduced in 2022 by then-Minister for Tourism and Culture Catherine Martin, allocated approximately €25.6 million ($28 million) to support artists recovering from the pandemic’s economic impact. Selected participants received a weekly stipend of €325 (about $370)—unconditionally—for three years.
From visual artists and musicians to performers and writers, recipients shared how the steady income had a profound impact on their personal and professional lives. The money was not tied to any performance metrics or work output, which offered a level of freedom rarely afforded in arts funding.
Major Benefits Highlighted by Recipients
According to a report by Jenny Dagg, a sociologist at Maynooth University who studied the program’s impact, the basic income delivered a range of benefits:
1. Reduced Financial Stress
Participants reported significantly less anxiety about meeting their basic needs, which allowed them to focus more on their work rather than financial survival.
2. Greater Creative Freedom
The income allowed artists to experiment, take risks, and pursue meaningful projects without the constant pressure to monetize their work immediately.
3. Career Development
Many artists were able to explore new opportunities, attend residencies, and pursue further education or training—leading to more sustainable and long-term creative careers.
4. Increased Confidence and Empowerment
The program instilled a sense of control and empowerment, with many recipients expressing renewed belief in their work and future within the arts.
5. Improved Mental Health
Recipients also reported better sleep, less stress, and overall improved mental wellbeing—underscoring the link between financial security and health.
What Happens Next?
As the program comes to a close, many recipients have expressed concerns about their financial futures. The fear of returning to economic instability looms large, especially as the creative sector continues to face challenges from rising living costs and evolving job markets.
Despite its success, the pilot was always scheduled to run for three years. However, there is a growing call from advocacy groups such as Basic Income Ireland and UBI Lab Network to make the program permanent and extend it to the wider population.
A Model for the Future?
The concept of universal basic income is gaining traction worldwide, particularly as AI and automation threaten to replace a significant portion of today’s jobs. Tech leaders like Elon Musk and Sam Altman have voiced their support for UBI as a necessary tool for the future economy.
While Ireland’s program was a targeted basic income, not a universal one, its success is being touted as proof of concept. Advocacy groups argue that the pilot has demonstrated not only the feasibility but also the transformative potential of a basic income for all.
Government’s Position
Current Minister for Arts and Culture Patrick O’Donovan has acknowledged the positive impact of the scheme. In a recent statement, he said:
“This research will add to the evaluation being conducted by my department, which to date clearly shows that the Basic Income Pilot has been an effective support for the artists in receipt of it.”
He promised to review all available data and submit proposals to the government for future actions.
Conclusion
As Ireland’s Basic Income for the Arts pilot wraps up, the question now is not whether basic income can work—but whether there’s the political will to scale it. For thousands of artists, the past three years have been a rare period of stability, growth, and opportunity. Whether that becomes a stepping stone to broader policy change remains to be seen.
