Future of Basic Income for the Arts remains in doubt

A new report found that the Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) pilot scheme has a “consistent, positive impact” on artists’ financial security, mental health and creative output, yet no confirmation of the programme's renewal has been announced.

Published this morning by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, the report was based on interviews with over 50 artists. It highlighted many key benefits of the scheme including reduced financial anxiety, improved artistic quality and increased time for creative experimentation.

Recipients also reported better sleep, access to healthcare and a renewed sense of legitimacy in their profession.

Minister O’Donovan said the research showed that since its inception the scheme has had an impact that was "far-ranging and affects all aspects of recipients’ lives."

Despite previous promises from Fine Gael, the Minister stopped short of committing to the scheme’s continuation.

“Per the Programme for Government, I will evaluate the data from the pilot and then bring proposals to Government about next steps,” he said.

Speaking to Hot Press before the general election last year, Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael confirmed they would commit to maintaining the BIA programme beyond its current trial period.

The report was conducted by Dr. Jenny Dagg, a sociologist at Maynooth University. Some of her previous work used qualitative and mixed method research to explore issues of refugee recognition, immigrant integration and reproductive justice.

Dr. Dagg's report on the BIA scheme aimed to answer a few core questions including how a basic income affects artists' financial stability, creativity, well-being and mental health. It also explored the broader social impacts of providing a weekly wage to artists.

Artists reported that thanks to the scheme they felt an "importance of 'giving back' to their community by purposefully forming collaborations or partnerships they feel were lacking."

With the pilot scheme set to conclude this August, many artists are calling for transparency on the scheme’s future.

Earlier this year, Social Democrats Senator Patricia Stephenson said it was "deeply disappointing that artists have not been provided with clarity on the continuation of this scheme."

She also added that she hopes "this pilot scheme would be expanded and made permanent."

The scheme has been running since September 2022. It currently provides 2,000 randomly selected artists and creative arts workers with a €325 per week wage.