Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 September 2024
211. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will commit to the retention, extension, and expansion of the basic income for artists scheme in Budget 2025, to ensure continued support for artists and the cultural sector (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37953/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Basic Income for the Arts pilot was a key policy objective for me. Since becoming Minister, I have been determined to focus on supporting professional arts practice and demonstrating to artists that they are valued, that their work is appreciated and that the contribution they make to enhancing all of our lives is understood.
Accordingly, in line with that commitment to supporting artists, in the last four years since Budget 2020:
• funding for the Culture programme in my Department has grown by over 90%
• funding for the Arts Council has grown by 68%
• funding for Screen Ireland has grown by 88%
• funding for Culture Ireland has grown 65%
• funding of €105 million is in place for the Basic Income for the Arts Research Programme
• funding for National Cultural Institutions has increased by over 50%
• we are supporting the provision of new artist workspaces in Dublin City and elsewhere
As the pilot is still ongoing, it is too early for Government to make a decision on next steps. However, I ensured that the pilot is underpinned by a robust research programme which will provide a clear evidence base for future decisions in relation to the pilot. I have stated previously that while there is no Government decision yet, I am in favour of the pilot being expanded.
