Scotland weighs artists' basic income after Ireland's model

Scotland is considering a direct Basic Income for artists similar to Ireland’s Basic Income for the Arts, which provides around €1,300 per month to about 2,000 artists and was made permanent in 2025. Proponents say it boosts creativity, wellbeing, and cultural output, while critics question funding and implementation amid tight budgets. The idea is gaining momentum with unions and cultural leaders, though details depend on policy choices ahead of an election.