Living Wage for the Arts:
Setting Rates of Pay for the Artists/Artsworkers of Ireland
In 2026 Praxis members will be working with SIPTU and their researchers to develop a framework in which to set a standard for fair rates of pay for the Arts Sector. The rates of pay proposed by this framework will be underpinned by comprehensive data-driven research. It is our intention to set the standard for rates of pay within the Irish arts sector.
We have already begun working with SIPTU economist Michael Taft who has made two short documents for us. One provided information on Comparative Spending on Cultural Services in the EU (from 2022) which clearly showed that Irish spending on cultural services was considerably below European averages. The second provides an estimated outline of minimum rates of pay for artists if we applied the same formula as Scotland which is closest to the scale and demographics of Ireland. Both documents have been uploaded to our website for anyone interested in viewing them. We are looking forward to building on this research to develop a much needed Living Wage for the Arts in Ireland.
CSO figures have consistently shown that artists and arts workers are some of the lowest paid in Ireland. There currently exists no formal guidelines from which artist can reference in setting their rate of pay. Praxis is seeking to address this in order to stop exploitative practice within the arts sector. Our ability to achieve positive change in the arts sector is dependent on our collective voice. Join Praxis today.
Comparative Spending on European Cultural Services doc:
Comparative Spending on European Cultural Services.docx
Scotland Pay Rates:
Scotland Pay Rates.docx
