Max HeyraudThe Irish government is asking for public feedback on its Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) scheme, which provides 2,000 artists and arts workers with €325 per week to help them focus on their creative work.
The consultation will inform decisions on whether the program should continue, how recipients are selected, and the level and duration of payments.
Patrick O’Donovan, Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, has launched a public consultation on the Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) scheme, which aims to tackle low and irregular pay in the arts sector.
The BIA was first introduced as a three-year pilot in September 2022 and later extended in June 2025 to run until February 2026. Under the scheme, 2,000 artists and arts workers, randomly selected, receive €325 per week, giving them financial stability to focus on their creative practice.
Recent government research has shown that the scheme significantly reduces financial anxiety among recipients, increases the time they can dedicate to creative work, and provides a sense of professional validation and autonomy. Earlier studies in 2023 and 2024 also highlighted reductions in depression and anxiety, along with improvements in overall life satisfaction.
The current consultation invites the public, arts professionals, and organisations to complete a short six-question survey, which will inform government decisions on the scheme’s future. Topics include whether the BIA should be made permanent, recipient selection methods, payment duration, and the adequacy of the current weekly payment. A section is also available for additional comments.
The survey opened on 12 August and closes on 5 September. Submissions can be made here.
