A universal basic income could support the creation process, help artists through periods of illness, and create a level playing field for every artist. Image credit: Shutterstock.
Following the recent success of the Universal Basic Income for Artists scheme in Ireland becoming permanent policy, the conversation around the introduction of something similar in Northern Ireland received a boost this month.
Deputy Lord Mayor Provost at Belfast City Council Paul Doherty tabled a motion calling for the Northern Ireland Executive to pilot a Universal Basic Income for Artists scheme, which passed.
The Deputy Lord Mayor Provost, who is also a former professional musician who has toured and performed with artists such as Paul Weller, The Proclaimers and Mumford and Sons, emphasised that there were far too many creatives living in poverty, relying on foodbanks and suffering from poor mental health simply because of their profession.
Doherty also noted the fragility of creative careers and the lack of investment in arts and culture. This is particularly notable in Northern Ireland where per capita culture spend is £5.07 per head, in comparison with £22.50 just over the border in the Republic of Ireland. Culture spend accounts for a mere 1% of Department for Communities budget.
Recognising the full extent of musicians’ labour
Universal basic income became MU policy at the MU’s 39th Biennial Delegate Conference in summer 2021. There, members discussed how it could support the creation process, help musicians through periods of illness, and work with other key welfare support to create a level playing field for every musician.
MU Regional Organiser for Scotland and Northern Ireland Caroline Sewell said: “The passing of Deputy Lord Provost Paul Docherty’s motion at Belfast City Council calling on the Executive to initiate a pilot UBI for Artists scheme in Northern Ireland is warmly welcomed by the MU served as a ‘shot in the arm’ for the conversation in Northern Ireland and across the UK.
“Musicians and other creative workers cannot continue to live and work in current conditions with the continual erosion of investment and opportunity. We look forward to supporting ongoing efforts on this matter in Northern Ireland and beyond.”