Simon Harris says he supports extending Basic Income for the Arts scheme

Tánaiste Simon Harris has said he would support the continuation of the Basic Income for the Arts scheme following reports of its economic success.

A recent cost-benefit report revealed the BIA has produced over €100 million in social and economic benefits. The report also found that for every €1 of public money invested, €1.39 was returned.

The scheme was introduced in 2022 with the aim of addressing challenges in the arts such as inadequate earnings and limited job security, and supporting artists' wellbeing and livelihoods.

It involves a weekly payment of €325 to 2,000 artists, maintained for three years — thus set to expire soon.

The Journal asked Harris if he would be in favour of continuing support for BIA in this year's budget, to which he said "it’s been a very successful scheme."

"It’ll obviously be matter for the Minister for Arts to decide whether we should," said Harris, adding, "I would be supportive."

Harris went on to discuss his recent visit to an arts centre in West Cork, during which he said artists told him of the scheme's benefits.

According to Harris, the artists said BIA has provided them financial stability as well as the opportunity to create more art than they otherwise would.

Harris said there is a "societal benefit that we all get from it as a country."