The Basic Income scheme for those working in the arts has had a positive effect so far, according to a report published this morning.
Since October 2022, payments of €325 per week have been made to up to 2,000 artists and creative arts workers.
The Basic Income scheme was the main recommendation of the Arts and Culture Recovery Taskforce, which was established to examine how the sector could recover from the Covid-19 pandemic.
The report found that recipients of the scheme spent eight hours a week extra on their art, and they worked fewer hours outside the arts sector to support themselves.
They were also in a better position to make ends meet financially.
Chair of the National Campaign for the Arts Maria Fleming welcomed the report and said housing is a massive problem for artists, and the costs and availability of affordable housing impacts significantly on artists.
Mayo-based artist Tom Meskill has been receiving payments under the scheme.
He said: "It has changed my family life. I can now say no to projects that are not suited to me - so that I can focus more on my own practice and my own work."
Minister for Arts Catherine Martin welcomed the findings of the report and said she will be advocating for the inclusion of the scheme in the Green Party's manifesto.
Asked about the recent departures of four main presenters at 2fm, the minister said people are entitled to choose their own career paths.
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