Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed Government approval of the new Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) scheme, describing it as a significant and progressive support for artists across the country.
The scheme will provide a weekly payment of €325 to 2,000 practicing artists for a period of three years, with a three-month tapering-off period at the end of each cycle. Payments to successful applicants will commence before the end of 2026.
With a budget of €18.27 million secured in Budget 2026, the new BIA will operate in three-year cycles. Artists will be eligible to participate for three out of every six years, ensuring broad access to the scheme over time. Guidelines detailing eligibility criteria and application requirements will be published in April, with applications opening in May.
Welcoming the announcement, Minister Canney said: “The approval of the new Basic Income for the Arts scheme is a landmark moment for artists and for Ireland’s creative sector. It recognises the immense contribution artists make to our cultural life, our communities and our economy.”
“The research from the pilot scheme clearly demonstrated the positive impact of providing income stability to artists – enabling them to devote more time to their work, increase creative output, and experience improved wellbeing and reduced financial stress. Importantly, an independent analysis found that for every €1 invested, society received €1.39 in return.”
Minister Canney continued: “This scheme will help ensure that talented artists can continue to live and work in their own communities rather than feeling compelled to leave due to financial worries.”
Minister Canney encouraged eligible artists to engage with the scheme once it opens:
“I strongly encourage artists throughout the country to apply when the scheme opens in May. It is important that those selected represent the full diversity of artistic practice in Ireland today.”
Guidelines for the new Basic Income for the Arts scheme will be published in April 2026, with payments to selected artists commencing before year end.
