Ireland’s Basic Income for the Arts pilot program, initiated in 2022 and providing artists with a weekly stipend, is nearing its conclusion. Despite the pilot program’s initial end date of August, it was extended to February 2026. The Irish government announced that the 2026 budget includes a successor scheme, aiming to make the basic income program a permanent fixture within the arts and culture sector, highlighting its positive impact on participants. This decision reflects the program’s success in reducing financial stress and fostering professional growth, as noted in a government report, with support from the Arts Council.
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Immigration enforcement operations have caused significant labor shortages on farms across major agricultural states, leading to crop losses and financial strain for farmers. Industry representatives estimate that a substantial percentage of farmworkers have stopped reporting to work due to these actions, causing disruption to the food supply chain. This labor shortage has sparked debate over immigration and visa system reform, particularly as native-born workers are unlikely to replace lost immigrant labor. Producers warn of potentially higher food prices and decreased availability if labor disruptions persist, highlighting the need for policymakers to address enforcement while also developing sustainable labor policies for the agricultural sector.
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The EU will reinstate pre-war trade restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural imports in June, reverting to 2017 tariff rate quotas (TRQs) instead of the temporary measures implemented after Russia’s invasion. This decision, impacting key exports like poultry, maize, and eggs, is projected to cost Ukraine’s agri-food sector €3-3.5 billion annually, a figure disputed by the Commission. The move has drawn sharp criticism from Ukrainian officials and EU agricultural organizations, who argue the transition back to TRQs undermines the support offered to Ukraine. The European Commission maintains the temporary solution prevents trade disruptions and denies abandoning Ukraine.
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John Q. Hosedrinker