28/12/2025
After a three-year pilot that began in 2022, the Irish government has confirmed that the Basic Income for the Arts programme will become permanent in 2026.
The scheme provides a regular weekly payment of €325 to artists and creative arts workers, helping them sustain their creative practice. From 2026, 2,000 artists will continue to receive this support, with the government signalling that the programme may be expanded over time.
The pilot has shown that income security allows artists to spend more time on creative work, reduces financial pressure, and improves overall well-being. Evaluations also indicate positive social and economic effects, highlighting the role of artists in strengthening culture and communities.
This is more than a policy decision. It demonstrates that sustained public support for artists benefits not only individuals, but society as a whole.
Sources:
Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media. (2024). Basic Income for the Arts: Programme Updates and Evaluation Summary. Government of Ireland.
Oireachtas Budget Statements. (2025). Budget 2026: Cultural and Creative Sector Measures.
