Departmental Schemes

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 February 2022

Tuesday, 8 February 2022

Questions (468)

Claire Kerrane

Question:

468. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will ensure that recipients of social protection supports for persons with a disability will be able to participate in the forthcoming basic income scheme for artists with regard to the means testing income thresholds which are part of disability support requirements and which are below the income levels set out in the proposed basic income scheme; if consideration has been given to allowing disabled artists who participate in the scheme to retain access to payments such as disability allowance and the blind pension; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6581/22]

Written answers

Minister for Social Protection

The Arts and Culture Taskforce recommended the introduction of a pilot basic income scheme for artists. This was reflected in the National Economic Recovery Plan. Budget 2022 included an announcement of €25 million to pilot a new Basic Income Guarantee scheme for artists.

My colleague the Minister for Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media has lead responsibility for this initiative and the matter is being progressed by Minister Martin and her Department.

Any issues regarding the interaction between the new pilot payment and existing payments from my Department will fall to be addressed in due course as work on the proposed pilot is progressed.