DONEGAL artists and creative practitioners are being encouraged to prepare for the launch of the new Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) scheme.
Practicing artists will be invited to apply for the scheme and 2,000 eligible artists will be selected to receive the payment of €325 per week.
The payment will be for three years and will also feature a tapering-off period of three months at the end of the cycle.
Highlighted the importance of this support for rural creative hubs, the Minister of State for Sport and Postal Policy, Charlie McConalogue said: “Donegal has a rich, world-class heritage in the arts – from our traditional musicians and painters to our writers and contemporary performers.
“However, it should also be acknowledged that their work can be challenging at times when it comes to making an income from it.”
Guidelines outlining the detail of criteria and parameters for the scheme are currently being finalised and will be published in April.
Following that, the scheme will open for applications in May, and these will be assessed over the summer, with payment to selected artists beginning before the end of 2026.
“Research from the pilot phase of the scheme showed that the payment led to increased artistic output and significant improvements in mental wellbeing,” the Donegal Minister of State added.
“A cost-benefit analysis further revealed that every €1 invested in the pilot returned €1.39 to society.
“This €325 weekly payment provides a vital safety net, allowing our talent to stay in Donegal and focus on their craft rather than being forced to seek work elsewhere.”
The scheme is open to practicing artists based in Ireland, including those who participated in the pilot.
