The Irish Music rights Organisation (IMRO) have issued their manifesto for the 2024 general election, calling for a strengthening of AI regulations, the expansion of cultural spaces and a permanent Basic Income for the Arts Scheme.

The use of artificial intelligence has become a subject of much debate in the music industry, amidst the recent rise of AI song generating tools like Suno and Loudly, as well other softwares which can imitate the voices of real life singers. IMRO say regulations on AI should be strengthened to "protect copyright, ensure transparency and fully respect creators rights thus guaranteeing fair compensation with robust enforcement under the EU AI Act."

Expanding the number and availability of cultural spaces across the country has also been listed in the manifesto, with IMRO stating that "more performance venues, temporary use of vacant properties, and integrating cultural spaces into development plans can revitalise communities, support artists, and boost local economies." Similarly, they suggest that "Irish cities should leverage music tourism to boost revenue "by "prioritising music in urban planning and development", citing the €150m impact Taylor Swift's Eras Tour had on the local Dublin economy during her three show stint in the capital last summer.

The Basic Income for the Arts pilot scheme, launched in 2022, examines the impact of a basic income on artists and creative arts workers, with weekly payments of €325 made to 2,000 artists and creative arts workers. Despite being hailed as a "signature legacy achievement" by Arts Minister Catherine Martin last month, there is yet to be a decision made on the scheme's expansion past it's scheduled end in 2025.

The initiative "has successfully provided financial support to artists, fostering creativity without financial strain," IMRO's manifesto reads, adding that "making the Scheme permanent and expanding it would further benefit both artists and the cultural landscape in Ireland."

Elsewhere, IMRO called fro the creation of  a National Music Strategy to "unite stakeholders in promoting and supporting the Irish music industry", as well as "the inclusion of consistent dedicated funding rounds for Irish music programmes as an integral part of the Sound and Vision Scheme."

Government party leaders agreed on plans to call a general election before the end of the year last month, with Taoiseach Simon Harris stating that he plans to call the election this week.