Irish artist Elinor O’Donovan shared her experience with the basic income program in Ireland, emphasizing how it positively impacted her life and artistry. The program, which ran from 2022 to 2025, provided artists with a weekly stipend. O’Donovan described the initiative as transformative for both her work and overall well-being.
Following the success of the pilot program, Ireland has decided to make the basic income program permanent, citing its significant societal benefits. This move has sparked enthusiasm among advocates for basic income in Canada, who hope to see a similar program implemented nationwide.
Basic income initiatives involve providing unconditional cash transfers to individuals to meet their basic needs. Ireland’s Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) pilot program was designed to support the arts sector’s recovery post-COVID-19. The program, though costly, proved to be financially efficient, generating positive outcomes such as increased audience engagement with the arts and improved psychological well-being for participants.
Canadian artists have long advocated for a universal guaranteed basic income. The news from Ireland has reignited their push for a similar program in Canada. Advocates believe that a federal basic income program could significantly reduce poverty rates in the country and empower individuals to make choices that enhance their lives.
Although Canada has experimented with various basic income programs at the provincial level, implementing a national basic income program remains uncertain. Economists have differing views on the feasibility of such a program, with some emphasizing the need to focus on economic growth and employment. However, proponents argue that a federal basic income program could be a crucial nation-building initiative.
Despite the differing opinions, the discussion around basic income continues to gain momentum in both Ireland and Canada, highlighting the ongoing efforts to address economic challenges and support artists and individuals in need.
