Music / November 17, 2020

New report calls for 3 year pilot of universal income for those in the arts

Music / November 17, 2020

New report calls for 3 year pilot of universal income for those in the arts

Words: Dylan Murphy

Its publication also suggests a review of cultural activities and venues under the various levels of the Government’s Living with COVID plan.

Today, the National Campaign for the Arts reacted positively to the publication of the Life Worth Living Report. It was undertaken by the Arts & Culture Recovery Taskforce set up by Minister Catherine Martin.

It represents an important step towards the survival, recovery and strengthening of the arts and events industries in Ireland. The task force took on board ideas from the NCFA and in many cases adopted their solutions. Many of the actions called for in the National Campaign for the Arts’ recovery plan and their pre-budget submission were acknowledged in the report.

Speaking on the publication of the report, Chair of the National Campaign for the Arts Anfela Dorgan said, “It was a pleasure to collaborate with colleagues from across the arts and events sector, and the Government departments, on this Taskforce. The role, wellbeing and lives of artists in our society were central to all our considerations. The outcome of this taskforce will ensure the long-term survival and growth of our sector, and most importantly will ensure protections for our artists and arts workers, as well as our audiences across the nation.”

A notable inclusion in the report that the NCFA are particularly pleased with is the proposal for a 3-year pilot scheme of a universal basic income.

Central to their pre-budget submission for a number of years, it would be a huge support for artists in light of the current pandemic. Similarly, the NCFA also welcomed a review of cultural activities and venues under the various levels of the Government’s Living with COVID plan. 

They note that as arts spaces like theatres, galleries and cinemas are professionally run environments and amending restrictions particularly at level three should be considered.

Click here for the full details on the plan.