"There is no doubt that the social problems among Norway's poor are also found in Norway's artistic and cultural circles. Many freelancers do not have money to set aside for their own retirement because they are not included in the same welfare arrangements, like sick leave and parental leave," Giske told Aftenposten.
Giske plans to use the funding to research the issue and then most likely a committee will be formed to work on the matter. Giske plans to have a report ready for parliament on the state of the Norwegian artist within a few years.
"I want to find out how big the problem is and its effects. Then we will find measures to help. I believe that we will see more freelancers in the future. It will be an important part of this effort to secure them reasonable living conditions," Giske said.
Giske points out that a certain amount of artists go in and out of unemployment benefit schemes and so the state already uses some funds on them. He now wants to find other ways to help.
