Ireland has delivered its answer to a longstanding question: Should a country directly support its artists? The government has decided to make a basic income for artists a permanent national policy in Ireland, following a three-year pilot launched in 2022 that tested whether stable support could strengthen the cultural workforce.
The pilot provided 2,000 artists and creative workers with a weekly payment of €325—about $380 today. It focused on helping the arts sector recover after pandemic closures eliminated income from performances and events. Officials sought to determine how stable support could alleviate economic uncertainty and enable artists to concentrate on their work.
An independent evaluation later found that the program increased the time spent on creative projects, reduced financial stress, and improved the well-being of participants.
Permanent program expands eligibility
Beginning next year, the basic income scheme will become a lasting part of Ireland’s cultural policy. Culture Minister Patrick O’Donovan secured approval to continue and expand the initiative under Budget 2026. The program will again support 2,000 artists, with the option to grow to 2,200 participants if additional funding is available.
A new application period will open in September 2026, according to Harrison Jacobs of ARTnews. Officials also plan to broaden eligibility to include more artistic disciplines than the original trial. As before, the program will not be means-tested and will operate separately from welfare benefits.
Artists say support changed their lives
Dublin-based artist Elinor O’Donovan said the pilot gave her the stability needed to focus on her career. She said, “As It Happens” that the income had major personal benefits. “It’s pretty huge,” she said. “It’s been transformative for my work, and for my well-being in general.”
Other support models exist, but Ireland stands out
Globally, creative workers often rely on irregular pay. In New York, a private program called Creatives Rebuild New York gave 2,400 artists $1,000 per month for three years after the pandemic. But Ireland’s approach is notable because it is funded by the state and designed to be permanent.
“This scheme is the envy of the world, and a tremendous achievement for Ireland, and must be made future-proof and sustainable,” O’Donovan said in a statement.
Evaluation shows cultural and financial benefits
The pilot cost Ireland more than $100 million, but a review reported several gains that helped offset the cost. Those included higher tax revenue, reduced welfare spending, and more public engagement with cultural activity.
O’Donovan said the return goes beyond numbers. “From a financial point of view, it’s hugely beneficial,” he said. “But beyond that, I think there’s something intangible that the arts offer to culture and society at large that is harder to measure, but I think it’s still extremely valuable.”
