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New insights from Microsoft Ireland reveal Ireland's workforce is navigating a period of transformation. The Microsoft Ireland Work Trend Index 2025 is based on a nationally representative survey of 1,000 Irish workers, conducted annually as part of a general population study, ensuring a demographic balance year-on-year. The results show that AI is emerging as a career catalyst, while job turnover hits a record? 38%, according to the respondents who took part in the survey,?while workplace satisfaction trends marginally downward. With AI adoption up 27% year-on-year, 41% of workers say it helps them work smarter. Half (50%) believe AI skills are critically important to remain competitive in the job market, while 54% say having these skills will broaden their job opportunities. Additionally, 40% believe knowing how to use AI at work will help them get promoted faster, and 34% say AI has made them consider other career paths. Yet, this optimism is tempered by uneven access and training gaps, with over half of workers calling for structured or employer-led AI training to help speed adoption. A Workforce in Flux and Under Pressure - Employees call for Balance Despite 57% of workers seeing opportunities for growth within their current roles, Ireland's labour market is in motion. Based on the survey results, turnover has surged from 19% in 2023 to 38% in 2025, positioning Ireland as a market with significant talent volatility. This churn underscores the importance of investing in retention strategies that empower employees to thrive by supporting their well-being, balance, and growth, which in turn help organisations to remain resilient in a rapidly changing workplace. Ireland's workforce trends align with global insights that highlight how emotional strains are compounded by the realities of today's workday, where digital overload and constant interruptions challenge even the most flexible environments. Linking this workforce feedback to Microsoft's global telemetry, a picture emerges showing the modern workday is increasingly distracted. Workers are interrupted every two minutes or 275 times per day, receive 117 emails daily, and spend 57% of meetings in unscheduled sessions. AI Eases Employee Strain - But Wider Access and Training is Required AI offers a practical remedy, helping employees manage their workload, reduce stress, and focus on higher-value tasks. It is increasingly seen as a solution to workplace pressure, with 91% of users in Ireland saying it improves the quality of their work. Additionally, 34% of workers say AI has made them reconsider their career path, highlighting its influence on professional ambition and future career opportunities. However, AI use remains uneven: · Board-level executives: 91% use AI at work · Non-managers: Only 39% use AI at work (versus 66% of managers) · Gender imbalance: 63% of men versus 47% of women use AI at work · Generational usage: 55% of Gen Z (18-24) use AI at work, compared with 62% of younger millennials (25-34), 59% of older millennials (35-44), 47% of Gen X (45-54), and 48% of Boomers (55-64). These disparities raise concerns about who has access to AI tools and benefits from them, and who risks being left behind. Lower engagement with AI could limit opportunities for efficiency and relief from routine tasks, potentially exacerbating stress levels for employees under pressure. It's perhaps no surprise, therefore, that over half (61%) of Irish workers are calling for structured AI training, saying their employer could support adoption by offering more training either in-house or through external providers, and 47% believe they should be given more time to research AI independently. Commenting on the alignment between Irish trends and the broader global perspective, Microsoft Ireland General Manager, Catherine Doyle said: "Ireland is at a turning point. As AI transforms the world of work, Irish employees and employers are navigating rapid change and new opportunities. The me...

Kota, the Irish-founded employee benefits platform, has launched the country's first Instant Auto Enrolment Solution following its €12.6 million Series A investment in May. Their purpose-built solution gets Irish employers Auto Enrolment ready in just a few clicks. With 1 in 4 businesses unprepared and statutory contributions set to begin on 1?January ?2026, employers have just five months to get ready. Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary is urging businesses to "act now", describing auto-enrolment as "the biggest transformation of pension policy in the history of the State." Kota's new offering enables HR and finance teams to implement a compliant occupational pension with Irish Life within minutes. I recently caught up with Luke Mackey the Co-Founder and CEO of.Kota Luke talks about his background, what Kota does, AI and more. About Kota: Launched in 2023, Kota is building the internet infrastructure for employee benefits. Empowering modern businesses to offer employees insurance and retirement benefits more easily and affordably, all through one integrated platform, app and embedded insurance solution. Powered by proprietary infrastructure, Kota removes the friction from global benefits for HR and finance teams. Founded in Ireland, Kota supports hundreds of businesses and is backed by some of Europe's leading investors including Eurazea, EQT Ventures, Northzone and Frontline, having raised over €20 million to date. See more podcasts here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Edgar Perez is a renowned Artificial Intelligence speaker who advises global businesses on disruptive technologies, digital transformation and the future of innovation. With experience spanning Wall Street, Fortune 500 companies and high-profile conferences, he has become a leading voice on the opportunities and risks that come with rapid technological change. From the rise of Central Bank Digital Currencies to the evolution of Web3, Perez explains how organisations can adapt, stay competitive and embrace innovation responsibly. His insights offer a rare combination of technical depth and practical guidance, helping leaders navigate shifts in finance, cybersecurity, and beyond. In this exclusive interview with The Motivational Speakers Agency, Perez shares his perspectives on digital transformation, quantum computing and the new frontiers businesses must prepare for as technology continues to accelerate. Q: Central Bank Digital Currencies are gaining traction worldwide. What opportunities and risks do you believe they present for organisations? Edgar Perez: "Let's think about how difficult it is today to transfer money. If you have a relative in another country and you want to send, let's say, 100, how long is it going to take? Days? Hours? How much are you going to pay? One percent? Two percent? And yet we are in the 21st century. "That is something that is going to change with technology. Today cryptocurrencies are one alternative, but these currencies are decentralised and not backed by any authority. CBDCs come along. CBDCs are Central Bank Digital Currencies backed by central banks all over the world. China, Korea, many different countries are already pursuing this path, offering CBDCs and allowing people to finally eliminate cash. "That will be extremely helpful when you think about transfers, because this is going to be faster, more efficient, and a great advancement for companies and people. All of us need to send and receive money. "CBDCs will create opportunities for companies because they will offer faster, cheaper and more secure ways to make and receive payments. They will also enable organisations to access new markets and customers, especially those who are underbanked or who don't have bank accounts. They will enhance the transparency and traceability of transactions. "Of course, financial services companies face a challenge because they might think that central banks will take over money. But that's not exactly the case. You don't see central banks today offering bank accounts. "Banks and financial service institutions will still have an important role to play, even though CBDCs will be managed by central banks and will definitely increase visibility in the movement of the monetary system all over the world." Q: Digital transformation is accelerating across industries. What advice would you give to businesses determined to stay ahead of the curve? Edgar Perez: "It is important to ask yourself: where am I, which business am I in, and what is my future? When you think about any digital transformation effort, you need to think about a digital strategy, which is basically a roadmap: what's your vision, what are your goals, what are your priorities? That will help define initiatives for digital transformation. "Your digital transformation strategy should align with your overall business strategy and address the needs and pain points of customers, employees and partners. A digital strategy should be flexible and agile, allowing experimentation. "Every effort will start from the top. The CEO needs to provide strong support for a successful digital transformation. They should communicate the vision and the value of it, allocate resources and budget, empower employees, support teams, and monitor and celebrate success. This has to be a priority. "Technology is evolving so fast. Fifteen thousand years ago we didn't have agriculture. Fifteen hundred years ago we didn't have machines. Fifteen decades ago we didn't have ...

A new global study from International Workplace Group (IWG), the world's largest platform for work and provider of flexible workspace, reveals that Gen Z employees are playing a pivotal role in driving AI adoption across the workforce, coaching older colleagues to help unlock productivity and collaboration gains in hybrid working environments. The study, based on a survey of over 2,000 professionals across the US and UK, shows that AI is becoming a cornerstone of how teams and in particular hybrid teams operate. 80% of workers have experimented with AI tools, and 78% say it has saved them time, averaging 55 minutes of saved time per day, equivalent to almost an extra full working day per week. Workers report that this time is being reallocated to higher-value activities such as creative or strategic work (41%), learning and development (41%), in-person collaboration (40%), and networking (35%). An overwhelming 86% say AI has helped them complete tasks more efficiently, and 76% report that it is directly accelerating their career advancement, with this figure rising to 87% among Gen Z workers. Cross-generational collaboration key to unlocking AI gains Cross-generational collaboration is central to this transformation. Nearly two-thirds (59%) of younger employees are actively helping older, more tenured colleagues adopt and learn to use AI tools, with 80% of Senior Directors reporting that this support lets them focus on higher-value tasks, while 82% of Senior Directors report that AI innovations introduced by younger colleagues have unlocked new business opportunities. Two-thirds of C-suite leaders say younger staff's AI skills have improved their department's productivity, and over 80% of senior directors believe AI innovations introduced by junior colleagues have opened up new business opportunities. Overall, 86% of those surveyed report AI has made them more efficient, and 76% believe it is advancing their career, rising to 87% among Gen Z respondents. AI's influence on collaboration is also clear: 69% of hybrid workers say it is making teamwork across locations easier, citing benefits such as improved meeting preparation (46%), access to shared insights (36%), and stronger post-meeting follow-ups (36%). Workers are embracing AI's potential to eliminate time-consuming administrative tasks. The most common areas where employees want AI to step in include drafting emails (43%), taking and summarising meeting notes (42%), organising files (36%), and completing data entry or forms (36%). With these tasks automated, employees are reallocating time to more meaningful work: 55% are now focusing on high-impact projects, 54% are pursuing professional development, and 40% are using the time to build stronger relationships with colleagues and clients or to invest in personal well-being. Benefits for hybrid workers The study also found that 69% of hybrid workers say AI is making it easier to collaborate with colleagues across locations. Improvements in meeting preparation (46%), access to shared insights (36%), and more effective follow-ups (36%) are streamlining teamwork, while 40% say AI has freed up time to invest in team-building and communication. In the hybrid model, AI is also reshaping how office time is used. With automation handling routine work, hybrid professionals now prioritise strategic thinking (41%), learning and development (41%), face-to-face collaboration (40%), and networking (35%) during in-office days. More than half of workers (53%) say AI is helping them achieve better outcomes, and 64% believe it is making hybrid working smoother and more effective. Workers are aware of the stakes. Two-thirds (63%) worry that not learning AI tools could slow their career progression, and 61% believe those who don't adopt AI risk being left behind. Yet the trend is toward inclusive, shared upskilling: 51% of employees say AI is helping bridge generational divides, and over half regularly share AI knowledge with colleagues, ri...

"Leaders who do not embrace decision intelligence will continue to struggle with fractured data, static reports, and dangerous blind spots," writes Alexander Walsh, Co-Founder and CEO of Oraion The current business landscape of rapidly changing consumer behavior, heightened global competition, and digital transformation is putting leaders under pressure to make faster, sharper, and more confident decisions. Their challenge is not a lack of data, but quite the opposite. Most organisations are drowning in data scattered across systems, dashboards, and static reports. What leaders need is not more data but decision intelligence: The discipline and technology that turns raw information into clear, actionable insight. Decision intelligence is becoming the defining capability for modern leadership. It gives executives a single source of truth, moves reporting from static snapshots to living systems, and closes the visibility gaps that stall progress. Without it, decision-making is slower, riskier, and more reactive. With it, leaders move from instinct and partial views to clarity and speed. Here are the top three reasons why decision intelligence is what leaders need right now. 1. A single source of truth is no longer optional In most organisations, data lives in silos. Finance has its systems, while marketing has other platforms, and operations run on something different. When every department has its own numbers and definitions, leaders spend as much time reconciling reports as they do acting on them. The result is confusion, wasted time, and decisions based on partial or conflicting information. This is solved through the addition of an agentic layer within the data stack. Agentic AI and data cataloging create a reliable single source of truth. Instead of chasing down spreadsheets or waiting on manual updates, leaders get one unified view of the business. Every decision starts with shared facts, not disputed data. That changes the conversation in the boardroom. Instead of debating whose numbers are right, leaders can focus on what the numbers mean and what action to take. For global enterprises, the financial impact is significant. A unified data foundation reduces reporting overhead, accelerates alignment, and ensures every executive is working from the same playbook. In an environment where speed and accuracy are competitive advantages, a single source of truth is not a luxury, it is a requirement. 2. From static reports to dynamic intelligence Traditional reporting is static. A report shows you what happened last week, last month, or last quarter. By the time it is reviewed, it is already out of date. Leaders who rely only on static reports are flying blind in fast-changing markets. Decision intelligence replaces static reporting with dynamic intelligence. Instead of waiting for analysts to prepare slides, leaders can ask questions in natural language and receive real-time insights. This results in patterns that emerge instantly with context carried forward across queries. What once took days or weeks can now be achieved in minutes. This shift matters because business cycles are accelerating. Competitive moves, customer churn, and operational issues appear quickly and often disappear just as fast. Leaders who can interrogate data dynamically move faster than those who wait for a formal report. They go from data to insight to action without delay. Dynamic intelligence also builds confidence. Leaders can test scenarios, compare outcomes, and validate assumptions in real time. Instead of making a judgment call based on a quarterly PDF, they can make a decision supported by real-time intelligence. 3. Leaders cannot afford gaps in visibility One of the most dangerous risks in leadership today is the blind spot. Gaps in visibility can mean missed opportunities, undetected risks, or delayed responses. A missed churn signal can cost millions in revenue. A hidden cost overrun can eat into margins. A delayed recognition of a competit...

Munster Technological University (MTU) hosted the Cybersecurity Smart Maritime Challenge 2025 in collaboration with Cyber Innovate, the Irish Naval Service and the National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) on Friday, 26th September. The event took place in the Cybersecurity Prototyping Lab in MTU's Bishopstown Campus in Cork, showcasing how Ireland's ports and harbours can be defended against evolving cyber threats. For centuries, Cork has been a safe harbour from storms, rough seas and pirates. In 2025, the definition of a safe harbour has expanded to include protection from digital attacks. This shift was brought into sharp focus during a live cybersecurity simulation, conducted using MTU's state-of-the-art Cyber Range infrastructure. The simulation, designed by Airbus, mirrored a real-world cyberattack on a maritime port. In the exercise, a hacker group paralysed a port's IT systems and disabled a ship at its entrance, effectively blocking all traffic. Four teams took part, featuring staff from the Irish Naval Service and the NMCI, alongside MTU researchers and students from Cyber Innovate. They were tasked with identifying the points of attack, regaining control of the vessel, and supporting Europol in apprehending the hacker group's leader. Irish ports are vital hubs for shipping and trade, making cybersecurity expertise essential to safeguarding national infrastructure. The challenge provided participants with practical, hands-on experience to develop skills that are directly relevant to addressing the growing cyber threats facing the maritime sector. "This collaboration between the Irish Navy, NMCI, maritime experts and cybersecurity specialists is essential to safeguarding Ireland's national security. This challenge highlights both the scale of the threat and the strength of the talent we are building in Ireland. Preparing for cybersecurity shock events before they happen is the only way to ensure our ports and maritime infrastructure remain resilient in an increasingly uncertain global landscape," said Dr Hazel Murray, Chair of Cybersecurity at Munster Technological University MTU is recognised as a leader in cybersecurity education, training, research and innovation. The university runs multiple programmes and initiatives, including Cyber Innovate, Cyber Skills, Cyber Explore, Cyber Resilience, Cyber Safety and Cyber Futures. Cork's reputation as Ireland's cybersecurity hub is strengthened by MTU's graduates, which has helped attract many national and international companies to the region. MTU also hosts the Cyber Range, a cutting-edge platform unique in Ireland. This allows simulated cyberattacks on virtual organisations in a safe environment. "At MTU, we are dedicated to advancing cybersecurity through cutting-edge education and research," said Dr George O'Mahony of MTU. "This state-of-the-art facility provides invaluable training for students, researchers and industry professionals, allowing them to build critical skills without risking real-world damage or outages." The Cybersecurity Smart Maritime Challenge underlined the critical importance of protecting Ireland's maritime sector from cyberattacks, particularly as the offshore renewable energy industry becomes a cornerstone of Ireland's energy future and a key enabler of EU climate change targets. To learn more about the Cyber Innovate news and events, visit www.cyberinnovate.ie.

Government and industry delegates from across Northwest Europe share expertise at NORDUK meeting to support zero emission HDVs Government officials and industry representatives from seven north west European countries - Ireland, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark, Netherlands and the United Kingdom - came together in Ireland on 18th September 2025 for the 2025 NORDUK meeting. Delegates discussed issues facing the Heavy-Duty Vehicle Sector, including driver shortages, decarbonisation and the regulation of the sector. Aiding the transition to zero emission HDVs The annual meeting provides an important opportunity for government officials and industry to share experiences and develop collaborative solutions to challenges facing the sector. On 19 September ATC (part of Arvato) hosted the visiting delegates at their headquarters in Dublin. The visit allowed delegates to hear about ATCs Green Logistics journey and gave delegates the chance to hear details of a real-world case study on the transition to zero emission HDVs. In September 2024 ATC announced a landmark investment of €22.5 million over five years to support a 'Driving Green Strategy'. Their ongoing transition of their fleet to battery electric power has been supported by the Zero Emission Heavy Duty Vehicle Purchase Grant scheme, funded by the Department of Transport. Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Séan Canney, said: "The NORDUK meetings provide a space for countries to navigate the complex challenges and opportunities we are facing through open dialogue and sharing our experiences. I'm delighted that my Department hosted the meeting this year as a demonstration of the shared commitment we all hold to advancing sustainable, efficient, and safe transport systems across Europe and beyond. "The visit to ATC by delegates was an opportunity to learn from industry about the challenges they face in transitioning to zero emission technology. This real-world experience is invaluable for policy makers as we work together to meet our climate goals." Rainer Hoerbst, Head of Green Logistics at ATC said: "At ATC we are delighted to be able showcase our Green Logistics journey to the NORDUK meeting delegates. Sharing our experiences from the first steps of emission reduction, trialling alternative fuels, investing in and subsequently successfully operating an expansive fleet of zero-tailpipe-emission trucks and vans. We are very proud of the progress which has been made towards accelerating and scaling electrical line-haul lanes across the continent through close collaboration with all relevant stakeholders. We look forward to exploring the next steps of this exciting journey!" About ATC - Part of Arvato: ATC Computer Transport & Logistics is a tech-focused Irish company providing highly specialised transport, logistics, and technical services to hyperscale data centre operators, global freight forwarders, co-location providers and Software as a Service (SaaS) companies worldwide. Headquartered in Dublin, ATC has a footprint in Europe and New Zealand. Since January 2025, ATC is Part of Arvato. For more information about ATC, visit https://www.atc-logistics.com See more breaking stories here.

Pre-sale begins 10am local time - Wednesday 1st October 2025 General sale from 10am local time - Friday 3rd October 2025 Tour Dates available below: Briancoxlive.co.uk After performing his sell-out, record-breaking show 'Horizons' to nearly half a million people across the world, Professor Brian Cox is back with new tour world tour Emergence. Tickets for shows spanning the UK & Ireland, Europe, the US, Australia, Asia-Pacific and beyond go on general sale at 10am (local times) on Friday 3rd October 2025 via briancoxlive.co.uk. In the winter of 1610 Johannes Kepler was crossing Prague's Charles Bridge when he noticed a snowflake land on his arm. Why, he asked, are all snowflakes six-cornered? "I do not believe," he wrote, "that even in a snowflake, this ordered pattern exists at random." 400 years later, we have part of the answer. Snowflakes are made of water molecules, which are made of atoms, which are made of quarks and electrons - which might be made of superstrings - all held together by forces of nature described by quantum theory. But how does such delicate beauty emerge from such abstract simplicity? Emergence is a celebration of the intricacy of the Universe and an exploration of the laws of nature that sculpted it. From the largest structures in the known Universe - the rivers and flows of galaxies that trace the cosmic web - to Earth's interlinked ecosystems and the structure of the human brain - from black holes to snowflakes - we observe a world of dazzling complexity underpinned by magnificent simplicity. How did a quarter of a million-year-old species of great apes on one small planet amongst trillions orbiting around a middle-aged star in an average galaxy figure all this out, guided by curiosity, mathematics and an aesthetic sense of symmetry and beauty? And what might we become if we can hold onto the ideas of the enlightenment so successfully developed and deployed by Kepler and his contemporaries and successors - ideas that have allowed us to begin to read the story of the Universe and carried our spacecraft to the edge of the solar system and outwards to the stars. Professor Brian Cox said: "I've loved creating Emergence - it's the most ambitious live show I've ever written. I've been very lucky to collaborate with a wonderful group of scientists, musicians, filmmakers and graphic artists to bring cosmology, biology, philosophy and history to the largest and most advanced LED screens available, with the best sound and lights I could find. I hope the show is an all-encompassing experience, and I hope it leaves everyone, whether they love science or music or history, or simply contemplating the beauty of Nature, with something new to think about." Brian has worked with a world-leading team of creatives for Emergence. Graphics and visual effects have been created in collaboration with Emmy Award winning director Nic Stacey and digital artist Erik Wernquist, and branding is by Peter Saville CBE, the renowned art director known for his original work with Factory Records. Brian has appeared in many landmark science programmes over the last 15 years, from the Peabody Award-winning Wonders of the Solar System to worldwide hit series The Planets to his most recent landmark series Solar System, which has become one of the best watched science series of the last decade. You can learn more about Professor Brian Cox by following him on social media @ProfBrianCox ABOUT PROFESSOR BRIAN COX CBE FRS Brian is widely recognized as the foremost communicator for science, cosmology and astronomy in the world. He is Professor of Particle Physics at the University of Manchester, The Royal Society Professor for Public Engagement in Science and a Fellow of the Royal Society. In September 2025 he was appointed as The Francis Crick Institute's first-ever Crick Scholar. Brian has presented a number of highly acclaimed, award-winning science programmes for the BBC watched by billions around the world including 'Adventures in Space a...

By David Stephen There is a recent [September 19, 2025] book review in The Atlantic, The Useful Idiots of AI Doomsaying, stating that, "The authors' basic claim is that AI will continue to improve, getting smarter and smarter, until it either achieves superintelligence or designs something that will. Without careful training, they argue, the goals of this supreme being would be incompatible with human life. Their larger argument is that if humans build something that eclipses human intelligence, it will be able to outsmart us however it chooses, for its own self-serving goals. The risks are so grave, the authors argue, that the only solution is a complete shutdown of AI research." Superintelligence : If Anyone Builds It, Everyone Dies "This line of thinking takes as a given that intelligence is a discrete, measurable concept, and that increasing it is a matter of resources and processing power. But intelligence doesn't work like that. The human ability to predict and steer situations is not a single, broadly applicable skill or trait - someone may be brilliant in one area and trash in another. Einstein wasn't a great novelist; the chess champion Bobby Fischer was a paranoid conspiracy theorist. We even see this across species: Most humans can do many cognitive tasks that bats can't, but no human can naturally match a bat's ability to hunt for prey by quickly integrating complex echolocation data." "They give no citation to the scientific literature for this claim, because there isn't a consensus on it. This is just one of many unwarranted logical and factual leaps in If Anyone Builds It. Along the way to such drastic conclusions, Yudkowsky and Soares fail to make an evidence-based scientific case for their claims. Instead, they rely on flat assertions and shaky analogies, leaving massive holes in their logic. The largest of these is the idea of superintelligence itself, which the authors define as "a mind much more capable than any human at almost every sort of steering and prediction problem."" What is the 'evidence-based scientific case' for human intelligence? If there is no known science of the mechanism of human intelligence and there is no general definition for human intelligence, then it is probably meritless to disdain predictions of risks - of an emerging non-biological intelligence. It is possible to have an issue with the extremisms of 'AI will solve everything' and that 'AI will kill everyone', but to do so without proposing what exactly human intelligence is or how it works, is also 'unwarranted logical and factual leap'. What is ahead, if AI improves, may remain unknown, but what large language models [LLMs] currently are, should frighten those who are seeking out human intelligence. In the human brain, assuming chair is a memory, intelligence is the use of that chair. While it appears that knowing things and using them sometimes go together, intelligence can be defined as the use of what is known for expected, desired or advantageous outcomes. Although planning, creativity, innovation and so forth intersect with this definition, intelligence can be broadly assumed to be how knowledge is used. This means that knowing is one layer, then using that knowledge for outcomes is another. In general, humans are trained both for knowledge and intelligence, since it is possible to have knowledge but not the intelligence for it. Across organisms, survival is mostly a play of using what is known. Avoiding predators, catching prey, other necessities for life are knowing and using. Bats can use 'echolocation data' and humans can't, naturally, while humans can use complex languages but bats, cannot. [Knowing and using.] While knowing can be basic sensory interpretation in memory, using can be aligned with ability. So, there are abilities to use what is known. For humans, abilities to use memory, including with language, exceed other organisms. LLMs have a wider memory use capability now - with data, algorithms and compute. ...

High Tech, High Touch: Kingsley Aikins discusses Networking, AI and the Dublin Leadership Summit 2025 As we adjust to a time dominated by artificial intelligence, automation and digital-first models, one question looms large for tech leaders: how do you build trust and meaning in human relationships while riding the wave of technological change? That is one of the central themes Kingsley Aikins, known as the "guru of global philanthropy", renowned expert networker and CEO of The Networking Institute, addressed in his recent interview. He'll be sharing more in person at the upcoming Dublin Leadership Summit, to be held on October 2, 2025 at Leopardstown Racecourse, Dublin. Kingsley Aikins, The paradox: embrace tech without losing touch Aikins draws on a vivid metaphor when talking about modern leadership: "Leaders have to be high tech and high touch. They must understand the potential, the power of technology, but they've got to understand that at the end of the day we're human animals. We crave social contact." He worries that while technology was meant to bring us together, in many ways it is doing the opposite. There is plentiful evidence of how attention spans are fragmenting, social spontaneity is reducing and networks are shrinking. For tech professionals especially, this calls for intentional balance. You cannot ignore the power of AI, data analytics and automation, and nor should you, but don't underestimate the key role connection, trust and serendipity play in scaling companies. "It's like King Canute holding back the tide. You can't stop what's hurtling toward us, AI, automation, etc., but you can choose how you respond," says Kingsley. Why networking is core to scaling tech Aikins warns that many founders and engineers focus exclusively on product and funding and neglect what he calls the "soft skills side". Yet, he argues, those are often harder than writing code or building infrastructure. He cites lessons from Google's internal research (Project Oxygen and Project Aristotle) which found that technical ability was the least of the essential leadership traits. The rest; listening, emotional intelligence, team dynamics, all mattered far more. To frame this, Aikins leans into the PIE theory of networking. The PIE theory (Performance, Image, Exposure) was developed by Harvey Coleman, an American author and career development expert. P = Performance: the work you do. This is what gets you on the ladder. I = Image: reputation; what people say about you when you're not there. E = Exposure: the visibility you cultivate; speaking, being seen, bridging networks. This is how you climb the ladder. He cautions founders that doing stellar work is only the starting point. To truly progress, you also need to build a strong reputation and maintain visibility so that others think of you and trust you when opportunities emerge. Just as importantly, he reframes networking itself, acknowledging that networking has a somewhat grubby reputation. It is not about what you can get, but about what you can give. In every conversation, Aikins recommends asking: 1. What can I do for you? 2. If you were me, what would you do? 3. Who do you know who … ? These questions shift dynamics, build goodwill and move relationships beyond cold outreach to warm introductions. The Summit as a proving ground The Dublin Leadership Summit 2025 (DLS25) offers a unique chance to see Aikins' philosophy in action. Hosted by AAB and The Dublin Network, the Summit runs from 10:30 am to 2 pm, concluding with a networking lunch. Aikins, as MC and host, will guide a panel of Irish leaders in business, sport, science and innovation. Expect real conversations about leadership, growth, purpose and resilience in turbulent times. For tech-oriented attendees, DLS25 offers more than presentations and speeches. It's a live laboratory for connection. You'll have access to senior peers, emerging leaders and cross-sector voices in a compact, high-intensity format. The networki...

KINTO Join, the leading sustainable mobility solutions company, has revealed its own data which shows that the company has saved over 760,500km worth of transport emissions across Europe. This equates to over 122,200kg of CO2 or 25 Olympic-sized swimming pools. In Ireland specifically, KINTO Join has helped its customers to reduce transport emissions to the equivalent of 918kg of CO2 or almost 8,000km. Across Ireland, the UK, Italy, Serbia, and Belgium, KINTO Join has facilitated almost 50,000 sustainable commuting journeys for businesses and universities, averaging savings of 5,200 kg of CO? for each organisation using its solutions. In practical terms, a company would need to grow 250 trees for at least a year to absorb these emissions. Patrizia Niehaus, CEO, KINTO Join, said: "Our data underscores the real-world value of sustainable mobility solutions in terms of reducing transport emissions. As well as enabling people to commute more sustainably, these tools empower organisations to achieve their ESG goals. "They also help countries like Ireland to take steps towards its climate targets and benefit the planet as a whole. Of course, global action is required to tackle the climate crisis, but it's important to remember that micro-level changes can collectively have a macro-level impact." Kinto Join recently launched its 'Ireland on the Move' Report to gauge commuter journeys, preferences, experiences and challenges across Ireland. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

This article has been adapted from Saving Ourselves from Big Car by David Obst (Columbia University Press/Columbia Business School Publishing, September 16, 2025) It is provided courtesy of the publisher. https://cup.columbia.edu/book/saving-ourselves-from-big-car/9780231210423/ How Big Car Took Over The World (Part One) In The Beginning… In 1885, no human being had ever seen an automobile. The number of cars on the planet was zero. In 2024, the one billionth car will join our earth's traffic jams. The most amazing thing about that number is that nobody planned it. We all just let it happen. We quickly and happily adjusted to the world that Big Car created for us. They caused us to move into cities, then leave our cities and move to the suburbs. They became a world-accepted method of showing one's status. We began caring as much about our cars as we did our families. With very little resistance, we allowed Big Car to take over our economies and our lives. In the name of mobility, we changed how humans lived. We became addicted. Here's how it happened. It started around 3500 BCE when some genius invented the wheel. The fact that humans had existed for hundreds of thousands of years without the wheel is often forgotten. One of the most interesting things about humans is how long it took us to come up with the modern standards we now use to meet our transportation needs. For most of the time humans have spent on the planet, we were able to live without needing to roll. The entire concept of time and distance we now live by would be incomprehensible for most humans who lived in that pre-wheel world. The distances between peoples, although not at all geographically great, were still vast. Spending generations within the confines of your own immediate space was how most humans lived. Travel was expensive, time-consuming, and most importantly, dangerous. People traveled sometimes because they were pulled by the lure of easier and more profitable ways of living. More often, they traveled because they were pushed and pulled by disease, natural disasters, or - most likely - other humans wanting to take their stuff. Another distinctive trait of humans is that they like their own spaces. To find those spaces often necessitated going to new uninhabited territories. That meant having to travel. At first, all travel was done on foot. If you were lucky enough to own a horse,then you traveled on horseback. Later, another genius figured out that horses and wheels could work together. He invented the buggy, which evolved into the carriage. The carriage became the must-have vehicle for the privileged few. By the sixteenth century, it was the status symbol of the ruling classes. Every European city was soon brimming with ornate, opulently decorated vehicles. The traffic jam had been invented, especially in bad weather. These early carriages were on four wheels and were drawn by two to four horses. Short-distance travel became cheap and convenient for much of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.You could buy your two-wheeled buggy for between $25 and $50 in today's dollars. Buggies could easily be hitched and driven by untrained men, women, and even children. Hundreds of different buggy companies competed for market share. The wide use of buggies led to the grading and graveling of main rural roads and the paving of streets in many cities. All of this continued until the start of the twentieth century. More and more of the world's population was moving into metropolitan centers, except they now all faced the same daunting problem: transportation was dominated by horses, and horses relieve themselves whenever and wherever they feel the urge. This had always been a problem for cities, but with population growth came an increase in the number of horses needed. By the end of the nineteenth century, London had over 300,000 horses a day coming into town. New York City had 150,000, and these beasts produced more than two thousand tons of manur...

Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease welcomed government officials, academic leaders, and industry partners to its hub in Cork, reinforcing the company's commitment to productive partnerships and collaborative relationships within Ireland's life sciences sector. Alongside established global operations in Dublin and Athlone, the Cork hub demonstrates Alexion's dedication to building enduring connections across Ireland. The country continues to play a vital role as a global supply chain hub, delivering life-changing rare disease therapies worldwide - a complex mission that depends on strong collaboration to ensure quality, safety and timely access for patients in need. Cork serves as a base for senior technical roles in manufacturing, supply chain, quality, and technical operations, positioning Alexion and AstraZeneca as active contributors to a vibrant regional life sciences community. Cork and the wider Munster region boast a robust talent pool and leading academic institutions, which enables shared innovation and professional development. Cork hub for rare disease research Across Dublin, Athlone, and Cork, Alexion and AstraZeneca employ approximately 1,400 people in development, manufacturing, supply, and commercial roles, working together with colleagues, partners, and educational experts to advance solutions for rare disease patients. Shane Doyle, Senior Vice President, Global Operations and Sustainability, Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, commented: "Ireland has long stood as a cornerstone of our global network, and our partnerships here reflect both our confidence in the country's talent, infrastructure, and supportive business environment, and our shared commitment to collaboration. Working closely within the Irish life sciences community allows us to enhance specialist capabilities in supply chain and technical operations, ultimately delivering our life-changing medicines to more patients around the world." Sylvia Kiely, VP, Global Supply Chain and Product Strategy Lead, Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, said: "Cork represents a convergence of talent and academic excellence, and we look forward to deepening our relationships across Munster's educational institutions and life sciences ecosystem. By working together, we nurture future talent and build on the region's strengths through ongoing collaboration and shared purpose." Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland, added: "I would like to congratulate Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease on establishing its operations hub in Cork. Their presence here underscores Ireland and indeed Cork's reputation as a key hub for the life sciences sector. With its well-established talent base, robust infrastructure, and pro-business environment, Ireland continues to attract strategic investments from world-leading companies. I would like to wish Alexion every success in the coming years." Alexion in Ireland Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease in Ireland employs ~1,400 people across sites in Dublin, Athlone and Cork. Alexion is focused on the highly specialist development, manufacturing, supply, and distribution of AstraZeneca's Rare Disease portfolio. Pairing vast technical capability with deep scientific knowledge our people across Ireland lead the sector in creating innovative sustainable solutions to meet the complex needs of rare disease patients throughout the world. Alexion Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease is focused on serving patients and families affected by rare diseases and devastating conditions through the discovery, development and delivery of life-changing medicines. A pioneering leader in rare disease for more than three decades, Alexion was the first to translate the complex biology of the complement system into transformative medicines, and today it continues to build a diversified pipeline across disease areas with significant unmet need, using an array of innovative modalities. As part of AstraZeneca, Alexion is continually expanding its global geographic footprint to ser...

Ahead of the historic Steelers Vs. Vikings NFL game this Sunday (28th September) in Dublin, the Irish government's trade and innovation agency, Enterprise Ireland has launched a report, powered by PItchBook data on Ireland's sports tech sector. The report points to Ireland's robust domestic sports tech sector, home to 93 VC-backed sports tech companies, including 40 homegrown global innovators. These companies include Orreco, Kitman Labs and Output Sports, who joined Enterprise Ireland for the launch of the report. All three companies are working with NFL teams and many other global sporting brands, including NBA, NHL, PGA Tour, F1, Olympians, Premier League and Premiership Rugby. Orreco the global leader in bio-analytics solutions for professional athletes, also announced today that they are supporting the Harvard Football Players Health Study, funded by the NFL and NFLPA. The study leads efforts to develop and support innovative research that has the potential to impact the health of current, former, and future NFL players. Examining the VC level of activity in Irish sports tech, the report, powered by PitchBook data reports that Ireland's sports tech ecosystem has notably defied the recent downward trend in VC activity seen in other regions since 2022. Irish sports tech VC deal count grew by more than 50% in 2023, compared with a drop of more than 30% for Europe overall in the same period. In 2024, Ireland's deal count grew an additional 47.1%, while broader European deal count declined again by 15.5%. Since 2014, Irish sports tech start-ups have collectively raised over €224 million in VC funding across 181 transactions. Notable VC funding rounds include Kitman Labs (€71.1 million raised) and Xtremepush (€18.6 million) and Output Sports with €4.5 million raised in 2025. Year to date 2025 data show that Ireland ranks seventh in Europe for total sports tech VC deal count, despite its relatively small population. On a per-capita basis, this ranking rises to first, and Ireland has maintained a top four ranking nearly every year over the past decade. Enterprise Ireland has emerged as a central force in shaping the sports tech investment landscape, not only in Ireland but across Europe. Since 2024, it has led the region in deal activity with 19 sports tech investments - more than triple the number recorded by the next most active investors. Commenting on the report, Keith Brock, Enterprise Ireland's Senior Client Advisor for Enterprise Solutions, said: "The Irish sports tech industry has expanded rapidly over the past ten years, both in terms of the number of companies, but also in the level of investment they have attracted and the impact they are achieving internationally working with global sports leagues. Across Enterprise Ireland's portfolio of sports tech companies, there are 89 active or pending patents covering wearable devices, augmented reality, diagnostic, exercise equipment and equine health. This level of patents points to the strong level of R&D and innovation happening in the sector, which in turn is accelerating the international sports industry from athlete performance to fan engagement. "We are proud of Enterprise Ireland's role in supporting the Irish sports tech industry, leading sports tech investment not only in Ireland, but in Europe, with 19 sports tech investment since 2024 alone. However, while Enterprise Ireland has been backing the Irish sports tech industry, the industry has also attracted major global VC investment including from Octopus Ventures (UK), Partech (France) and Apex Capital (Portugal)." Irish companies working with NFL Teams: Kitman: Kitman Labs' Intelligence Platform (iP) is an advanced operating system for performance, health, and talent development, unifying data across medical, performance, coaching, and operational domains to deliver AI-driven, evidence-based insights. iP enables leagues, federations, and elite organisations to connect data, streamline workflows, and optimise ath...

Fianna Fáil's Jim Gavin has emerged as the candidate with the strongest national radio footprint in the run-up to the 2025 Presidential election, according to new research from Irish PR intelligence platform Everhaze. Analysis of 2,500 radio clips over the past twelve weeks shows that while Independent Catherine Connolly leads overall mentions (36.3%), Gavin (33.5%) pulls ahead in terms of national airwaves share, with 34.9% of his coverage on national talk formats. By contrast, Connolly's campaign is more heavily weighted to local outlets (68.6% of her coverage) and Heather Humphreys' profile is even more locally concentrated (71.3%). This national advantage translates into strong presence across high-reach talk shows such as The Pat Kenny Show, Newstalk Breakfast, and The Anton Savage Show, where margins between candidates are typically slim but Gavin remains consistently competitive. On local radio, however, Connolly retains the edge, leading in 13 counties including Donegal (+22pp) and Galway (+18pp). Gavin posts selective peaks (notably Louth, where he dominates with 77.5% of mentions) and converts his national presence into 8 county leads overall. Humphreys, meanwhile, has a more concentrated footprint, with standout strength in Cavan/Monaghan (+12pp lead). Sentiment analysis underscores a three-way contrast: Humphreys records the most positive net tone (+12pp), Gavin trends neutral-positive (+5pp), while Connolly faces a more polarised balance (?3pp). Speaking about the findings of the report, James McCann, CEO of Everhaze said: "With nominations closed and facing into the four week sprint, each candidate will be looking to own the share of voice across the national airwaves to capture undecided voters. Outside of Dublin the counties of Longford, Leitrim and Roscommon have heard the least from all candidates so far which is unsurprising given the battle for the urban centres of Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway. As the campaign heats up its every candidate's race to lose in presenting a clear narrative and message to the public." Everhaze is an Irish-built PR intelligence platform that tracks real-time media coverage across radio, print, and online sources in Ireland and the UK. Its technology combines broadcast capture with AI-driven analysis to map who is getting talked about, where, and in what tone. The platform is widely used by communicators to monitor campaigns, understand sentiment shifts, and measure share of voice. As part of the 2025 Presidential campaign, Everhaze has launched the "Battle of the Airwaves" tracker, a live view of how each candidate is performing week-by-week on radio. The tracker highlights: Share of voice across national vs local stations County-by-county exposure showing where candidates are winning or lagging Sentiment balance, capturing whether coverage is favourable, critical, or neutral Programme battlegrounds, where margins between rivals are razor-thin Updated weekly, the Battle of the Airwaves gives voters, journalists, and campaign teams a transparent lens on who is winning the media war as the race for Áras an Uachtaráin heats up. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Founder-inspired by Netflix, powered by AI, and tested with lean startup tactics - Dublin's Sunday afternoon clubbing experiment finds its crowd. On Sunday 21st September, Dublin entrepreneur Saoirse Sheridan hosted her pilot Dance Space event at Wigwam, Dublin 1, with Reveller Music on the decks - a Sunday afternoon, alcohol-free clubbing experience. Around 20 people attended, 12 tickets were sold (€205 gross sales), and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with participants praising the atmosphere, the music, and the novelty of a daytime, booze-free dance floor. Dance Space Pilot in Dublin The spark for Dance Space came earlier this summer when Sheridan listened to Netflix founder Marc Randolph on The Diary of a CEO podcast discussing the power of rapid idea validation. "That really resonated - I had a personal problem: I love the clubbing vibe but don't want late nights or alcohol. Using lean startup thinking, I realized I could test the idea quickly, cheaply, and see if anyone else felt the same," Sheridan explains. The pilot investment To test the idea properly, Sheridan invested about €1,500 upfront in branding, a simple website, and promotion - the basics needed to get the first event off the ground. The pilot itself brought in €205 in ticket sales, with around 20 people dancing on the day. "Yes, it cost me money, but the real goal wasn't profit on the first night. The point was validation: would people actually come, enjoy it, and want more? And the answer, based on the energy in the room, was a definite yes." Fast learning with AI Sheridan leaned on AI tools throughout the process - from drafting the website to preparing event communications. Working with three interns, she was able to move from idea to launch in just a few months. After the pilot, she is now using ChatGPT to review ticketing data and customer feedback in preparation for the next event on 19th October. "It's all about test, learn, and pivot. AI can speed things up, but it's the human response in the room that tells you whether you're onto something," she notes. National attention Ahead of the pilot, Sheridan was interviewed on RTÉ Radio 1's Ray D'Arcy Show, which helped spread the word nationally and brought fresh attention to the idea. Bigger picture: cultural shifts The pilot reflects broader changes in Ireland's social habits. Alcohol consumption has fallen by 30% in the last two decades, and the sober-curious movement is growing, particularly among Gen Z. Wellness is no longer confined to gyms or yoga studios - people are looking for social spaces that fit with healthier lifestyles and Monday morning commitments. Sheridan says Dance Space is part of that bigger picture, but she is also realistic: "For me, this doesn't have to turn into a huge venture to be worthwhile. The real win is testing the idea, seeing people enjoy themselves, and learning from it. That in itself has been very rewarding." Balancing projects At the same time, Sheridan remains fully committed to her main venture, Elder Home Share, a social enterprise matching older people with housemates for support and companionship. Dance Space, she says, is a passion project and a live case study in rapid validation. "This has been a great learning experience. Even if it doesn't become a big long-term project, proving an idea quickly and seeing people enjoy it has been worthwhile in itself," she reflects. Founder's takeaway Dance Space represents not only a new addition to Ireland's wellness scene but also an example of how entrepreneurial thinking and AI tools can lower the barriers to testing ideas fast. Sheridan laughs: "I had a good dance myself, was home for my Sunday dinner, and in bed by 9pm - just the way I like it." About the founder: Saoirse Sheridan is the founder of Elder Home Share, a Dublin-based social enterprise that matches older people with compatible housemates for companionship and support. Dance Space is her latest side project, applying lean startup and AI-driv...

Spending at fashion businesses in Ireland rose by 3% in August compared to the previous month, according to newly released cardholder data from Visa. Women's accessories and sports apparel were found to be two of the fastest-growing fashion sub-sectors over the past 12 months, according to the cardholder data. Online is the preferred way to shop for fashion While spending is on the rise at Irish fashion businesses, the way in which consumers are shopping for fashion is also changing, according to Visa, with digital channels playing a central role in growth. A consumer survey commissioned by Visa, Title Sponsor of Ireland Fashion Week (6-10 October), found that two-thirds (62%) of respondents choose to shop online for convenience. 37% prefer it over in-store shopping as it allows them to avoid crowds and queues. Consumers are using AI and social media to find fashion The Visa survey also indicates that digitalisation is changing how shoppers discover and interact with fashion brands. Over half (56%) discover new fashion labels through search engines, online browsing, and social media platforms, highlighting the importance of having a strong online presence. Emerging technologies were also found to be influencing online shopping, with 12% of surveyed shoppers already using AI tools to search for or compare fashion products, and a further 32% interested in trying AI to enhance their shopping experience. More than half (55%) of respondents surveyed by Visa prefer to shop directly on a brand's website. Supporting local, buying Irish When it comes to supporting small and medium-sized Irish fashion brands, almost a quarter (24%) of those surveyed said they prefer to buy from them over large Irish or international fashion chains. Almost two-thirds of Visa survey respondents (61%) have made a purchase from a small Irish-owned fashion brand in the past year. On average, those surveyed were found to spend €87.80 per month on fashion, with the vast majority (82%) spending up to €150 per month. The Visa-commissioned survey found that online shopping habits are also linked to consumers' values. Among surveyed respondents, 44% said they deliberately choose to shop online from small Irish fashion brands, rather than international ones, to support local jobs and communities. Conor Langford, Ireland Country Manager, Visa, said: "Digital commerce is helping open doors for small, local fashion brands to reach new customers like never before. Our data shows that spending within Ireland's fashion sector is growing, and more shoppers are seeking out, discovering, and buying from Irish fashion brands online. This is driving real growth for Ireland's economy. Visa is proud to support this momentum as Title Sponsor of Ireland Fashion Week, a platform that is celebrating local fashion talent and helping them turn their creativity into sales and new opportunities." Visa is a global leader in digital payments and Title Sponsor of Ireland Fashion Week, which kicks off next month (Oct 6th - 10th). About Ireland Fashion Week Powered by Visa As the title sponsor of Ireland Fashion Week, Visa aims to bring global recognition, industry expertise, and elevated opportunity to one of Ireland's highly anticipated cultural events. As a global leader in digital payments, Visa empowers small businesses to get online, accept and send digital payments and attract a nationwide or even international customer base - all important components to help designers grow and prosper. Visa's commitment to innovation and its alignment with Ireland Fashion Week signal a shared commitment to progress and the celebration of Irish creative talents. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podc...

We catch up with Magnus Gravem from reMarkable to chat about ethics, sustainability and how he aims to integrate this into his current work. Who are we talking to? Magnus Gravem, VP Sustainability in reMarkable Is it a logical journey to what you are doing now? Yes, from a certain point onward, my path has been clear. I always knew I wanted to work in business ethics and for a company with the potential to make a real impact. After several years as a sustainability consultant, reMarkable was the rare opportunity I'd been searching for. A Norwegian hardware company focused on helping people cut through distractions resonated with my professional ambitions and commitment to minimalism. When I fully understood the reMarkable vision of 'better thinking', and how sustainability could be embedded at its core, I knew this was a place where I could make a real difference. Sustainability and ethics with Magnus Gravem, reMarkable You began by studying religion, did you see yourself working in the field that you are now in? When I chose my master's thesis, I already knew I wanted to work with business ethics - at a time when dedicated sustainability programs didn't exist, so I had to carve my own path. I found it fascinating that, across cultures, ethical principles often lead to the same outcomes even if the reasoning differs. That insight still shapes how I approach sustainability today. To succeed with sustainability, it needs to be intertwined with business, and vice versa. It has to be built in, not bolted on. What I did not know at the time, however, was that in a few years I would be working in a company defining the paper tablet category. What are you currently working on? Recently, much of our focus has been on the reMarkable Paper Pro Move - our most sustainable product yet. With its recent launch, we've taken major steps forward, pioneering the use of recycled materials, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving repairability, and ensuring superior product longevity. The results speak for themselves: The Paper Pro Move contains 20% recycled content by weight, with key materials like the rare earths in the magnets and the cobalt in the batteries being 100% recycled, and we've achieved a 27% reduction in GHG emissions compared to a scenario without active improvement efforts. With Paper Pro Move, we've designed for repair, refurbishment, and recycling from the ground up - supporting a circular product lifecycle. Our refurbishment program, active since 2019, gives returned devices a second life with the same warranty as new. The separate backplate makes it easy for the experts at our assembly site to replace or repair most of the internal components, like the battery or even the circuit board. We're also expanding regional refurbishment in Asia, Europe, and the US to extend product lifespans globally. These steps ensure long-term value is built into every reMarkable device. For us, sustainability isn't a one-off project but an ongoing commitment, built into how we design and develop technology. What sustainability strategies are you working on implementing at reMarkable? At the core of our efforts is our circularity strategy, which ties together product design, new business models, and operational practices. A key part of this is our product sustainability strategy, which turns the ambitions of circularity into concrete actions in product design and development. This strategy helps us extend product lifespans, expand circular services, and make responsible material choices. Alongside this, we're implementing policies across our supply chain to protect human rights, secure decent working conditions, and address climate impact in a measurable way. We take a holistic approach, including key areas such as climate, circularity, and people. Everything we do is guided by risk-, opportunity-, and impact-based assessments so that our relatively small sustainability team can deliver outsized results. What are your targe...

Guest post by Cathy Mauzaize, President, EMEA, ServiceNow The momentum around AI is stronger than ever. Across EMEA, organisations are moving quickly by running pilots, rolling out use cases, and exploring how AI can help them work smarter. The energy is there, and the ambition is clear. However, ServiceNow's latest research, the ServiceNow Enterprise AI Maturity Index 2025, shows something surprising: while adoption is accelerating, AI maturity is actually falling. It's not that leaders are holding back or underinvesting. What's missing is a deliberate focus on people. Success with AI demands more than the right technology. It requires the people who help to design it, train it, scale it and, of course, use it. It's the people that turn innovation into impact. This is especially true now, as agentic AI becomes part of everyday work. These intelligent agents can transform how we operate by handling tasks, solving problems, and even making decisions on our behalf. But they don't work in isolation. If we want to see real results from AI, we have to stop seeing it in isolation. If AI is the engine of business transformation, then it is people - their vision, skills, and leadership - who drive it toward success. Create a culture where experimentation is the norm Every leader talks about innovation; however, experimentation only really works if people feel safe and supported to try new things. That means creating an environment where curiosity is encouraged and failure isn't feared. In EMEA, we're seeing progress. More leaders are giving teams the space to explore new ideas and take ownership of how AI is applied in their day-to-day work. In fact, 46% of organisations in EMEA say they're encouraging a culture of experimentation to engage employees in assessing the utilisation of AI solutions. One telecom leader recently told me they invited frontline teams to experiment with GenAI at their contact centre. By engaging and empowering teams to be part of the solution, they've seen higher resolution rates and increased customer satisfaction. What's more, they have a pipeline of new AI use cases identified by the teams on the ground, closest to the processes and customers. This is because when people are part of the process, they're more likely to trust the outcome. They understand the technology because they helped shape it. That kind of engagement leads to better adoption, better solutions, and ultimately, better business outcomes. Nevertheless, experimentation still needs guardrails. It needs purpose. Otherwise, it risks becoming chaotic or disconnected. That's where leadership needs to play an active role. It is important that leaders set clear priorities, align teams, and create the conditions for experimentation to feel both possible and valued. Skills are the hidden barrier to AI maturity Agentic AI is powerful - but it's not magical. It doesn't just appear and work because you want it to. Successful adoption depends on people having the right skills to design, use, and govern AI effectively. Yet, across EMEA, only 28% of organisations feel they have the right mix of talent to deliver their AI strategy. That's a major barrier to innovation and one that too often gets overlooked. The reality is most businesses don't need everyone to be a data scientist. However, they do need people across the organisation to understand what AI can do, how to use it responsibly, and how to apply it to move the business forward. Scale starts with capability That means investing in the basics - from AI literacy to upskilling programmes. It also means building cross-functional teams that combine technical talent with domain expertise, creativity, and collaboration - because that's what it takes to make AI work in the real world. Real transformation is people transformation If there is one simple truth leaders should take away from this year's AI Maturity Index, it's this: AI will not transform your business unless your people are ready. I recently ...

The international Global Destination Sustainability (GDS) Index measures the sustainability of tourist destinations in four different categories based on more than 70 indicators. Over a hundred cities around the world committed to sustainability are included in the comparison. This is the second consecutive year that Helsinki has topped the ranking. "Helsinki is investing in sustainable growth in tourism. Our aim is to make Helsinki a welcoming destination for a steadily rising number of travelers. Being the world's most sustainable tourist destination for the second year in a row shows that our work for tourism and its sustainability is paying off," rejoices Mayor of Helsinki Daniel Sazonov. Helsinki most sustainable tourist destination in world "Helsinki continues to raise the bar by defining the 'next practices' of regenerative destination management. Through bold climate action, pioneering sustainability strategies, and a steadfast commitment to transparency, the city demonstrates exceptional vision. Its recognition as the top-ranked destination in the 2025 GDS-Index - for the second consecutive year - is highly deserved," congratulates Guy Bigwood, CEO, GDS-Movement. Helsinki's sustainability is built on cooperation The GDS Index assesses sustainability in four categories: environmental performance, supply chains, destination management and social sustainability. Helsinki's sustainability as a tourist destination is the result of cooperation between many operators. For example, the increasing number of companies with environmental certifications and the more climate-friendly production of district heating and electricity have helped Helsinki reach the top of the list. "Up to 99 % of the rooms of hotels with more than 50 rooms in Helsinki are environmentally certified. This level is significantly higher than in Europe in general. Similarly, more and more destinations, meeting and conference facilities, tour operators and others have environmental certifications," says Tourism Director Nina Vesterinen from the City of Helsinki. Transparency and reliability matter in sustainability In addition to the GDS Index, Helsinki has also performed well in other international assessments of sustainable tourism this year. In March, Helsinki became the first city with over half a million residents to be awarded the Green Destinations GSTC certification, which has the strictest criteria in the world. "For Helsinki, it is essential that sustainability is transparent. Sustainability must be more than just marketing-level greenwashing, which is already demanded by EU legislation requiring environmental claims to be reliable and verifiable. This is why indices and certifications such as GDS and GSTC are important to us," Vesterinen points out. Tourism and city growth call for continued sustainability efforts The tourism year of 2025 has been record-breaking for Helsinki. According to Statistics Finland's accommodation statistics, the number of nights spent by international tourists has increased by 19 % in the first seven months compared to the same period last year. A significant share of this growth comes from congress attendees. "International surveys show that a growing number of tourists are looking for more sustainable services and destinations. As a result, there will continue to be demand for the world's most sustainable destinations. The City of Helsinki, businesses and all tourism operators must continue to systematically invest in the sustainability of tourism," continues Tourism Director Vesterinen. The City of Helsinki has several sustainability-related projects and measures underway. It already measures the carbon footprint of tourism, promotes the measures of Helsinki's climate roadmap for tourism and supports tourism businesses on the path of sustainable tourism. Ensuring the participation and wellbeing of residents is also an important factor in the development of sustainable tourism. "We are promoting tourism with all ar...

By David Stephen who looks at digital mental health in this article. Parental controls and age verification are the default solutions to emerging digital effects, especially for younger people. However, the ease with which those can be bypassed indicate that they are rarely reliable. Aside from both, since the recent history of the internet, there has been no sketch from psychiatry, about how digital outputs may induce relays on the mind. Simply, at this point, especially after the wildfire of social media, it should, at least, have been possible to have a rough chart for the mind, on platforms, so that users can have an insight to what may be happening. Had this existed, as AI chatbots emerged, it would have been easy to make the transfer - for applicability. The necessary solution to AI psychosis, for now, would be to have displays about the mind, so that whatever chatbots are saying are simulated, including with estimates of delusion and the rest. Then, maybe sent to parents as well. This effort could be concatenated by an AI psychosis research lab. The importance of Digital mental health There is a new [September 18, 2025] spotlight on WIRED, AI Psychosis Is Rarely Psychosis at All, stating that, "A wave of AI users presenting in states of psychological distress gave birth to an unofficial diagnostic label. Experts say it's neither accurate nor needed, but concede that it's likely to stay. AI psychosis is not a recognized clinical label. Still, the phrase has spread in news reports and on social media as a catchall descriptor for some kind of mental health crisis following prolonged chatbot conversations. AI psychosis is a misnomer. AI delusional disorder would be a better term. I think a better term might be to call this 'AI-associated psychosis or mania. At this point it is not going to get corrected. 'AI-related altered mental state' doesn't have the same ring to it. So, the question becomes, where does a delusion become an AI delusion?" Are psychiatric labels brain-based or not? What is psychosis in the brain? Simply, for the correlated components of the brain, what are the changes that result in the state of psychosis? This same question can be asked of any other mental disorder. What is this in the brain, differently from when it is not there? First, what components are primarily responsible, next, how so? This is an obvious problem in psychiatry, given that the DSM-5-TR is more of labels for observations, not parallels of activities in the brain - by components. Now, even if this is unavailable, the adverse effects [for some users] of social media and AI chatbots, do not necessary need a brain model, to show or explain before providing on-the-go support. A Model for AI Sycophancy AI is said to be sycophantic. This means a lot of compliments, adulation and so on. In the human sphere, with words of encouragement, support and others, why do they work? Why are kind words interesting and unkind and words hurtful? It is proposed that in a direct sense, words are targets. When said, they get interpreted in the memory area, then bounce off to the emotional area for categorization - of cool or not - then they move again to the affect area for happy or sad. This is a simple way to describe it. It uses existing labels, following observations. This could be similar to what happens digitally from social media or from AI chatbots. Interpretation in memory, categorization by emotions and then placement of affect. If the route is consistent, it may taper the chances to other routes. This may include [to] those of caution, consequences, as well as for reality. It is this [say] anomalous pathway that hastens the descent into delusion. Solving AI Psychosis All chatbots should at least be accompanied by a simple chart showing relays and destinations in the human mind. This would be explained by the theoretical basis of compliments. It would serve as a sighting of what bots might be doing in the mind, especially where they are sendin...

Pure Telecom, Ireland's high-speed broadband and telecoms provider, has announced new results from its Connected Lives 2025 survey, revealing almost a third (32%) of adults believe the thumbs-up emoji is passive aggressive. The survey of 1,001 adults in Ireland was conducted by Censuswide on behalf of Pure Telecom and sought to explore the various communication styles across different demographics. It found that while commonly used to signal acceptance or approval, the thumbs-up emoji has become a sign of rudeness for some. A significant 44% of adults under 25 believe it is passive aggressive, compared to just 12% of those aged 55 and over. The research examined how adults are communicating with each other in their daily lives. When asked what the most recent digital communication they had with someone in their personal life was, 36% of adults said it was via instant message, followed by 18% who had a voice call. Meanwhile, instant message - considered by many as a casual form of communicating - is the second-most cited form of communication for those who are in employment. Almost a quarter (23%) reported that their most recent work communication was via instant message, after email at 32%. With many instant messaging apps enabling users to see when their message has been read, and when the recipient has been online, the research shows that having a message left 'on read' - when a recipient reads a message but doesn't respond - makes 48% of adults anxious. Although, 41% admit they do this themselves, leaving the sender waiting a day or longer. Similarly, 47% of adults can't stand seeing their message being left unread when they know the recipient has been online. The research found that 36% of adults get nervous about posting a message in a group chat in case no one responds and 31% have even deleted messages they have sent to group chats after no one replied. Meanwhile, Pure Telecom's survey suggests that the text message - once viewed as a game-changer in how people communicate - could be on the way out for person-to-person interactions. One in 10 adults have never sent a text message, with this figure rising to one in four adults aged under 25. Paul Connell, CEO, Pure Telecom said: "Our research shows just how much meaning people now attach to even the smallest digital gestures. A simple thumbs-up can spark very different reactions, depending on the recipient's age. So, while a Baby Boomer might see it as a perfectly acceptable response to a message from one of their children, the recipient might spend the rest of the day wondering what their problem is. "Despite the nuances, digital communication is often the glue that keeps people together. From staying in touch with your other half throughout the day, to having a fantasy football group, these tools make it easier to stay close no matter the distance. At Pure Telecom, we are passionate about keeping people connected online and promise not to leave any of our customers 'on read'." See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Ireland's fascination with the cosmos takes centre stage from 4-10 October 2025 as Space Week Ireland returns with a new theme, "Living in Space." Coordinated by MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory (BCO), the week invites students, families, community groups, artists, engineers and the wider space community to explore how life on Earth can inform life beyond it - from caves and controlled habitats to stars, galaxies, black holes and supernovas. Many events are free, with others ticketed locally. The programme blasts off with a Space Week Roadtrip, bringing astronauts and science communicators directly into communities across the country to spark imagination and curiosity. Former NASA astronaut Dan Tani will be joined on the road by Dr Niall Smith, Head of Research, MTU and Head of Blackrock Castle Observatory, for a series of public and school engagements across Cork, Kerry and Limerick from Saturday, 4 to Tuesday, 7 October. Space Week Ireland celebrations get underway on Saturday 4 October (10:00-13:00) with a family-friendly Space Week Festival at the Cork School of Music.. Audiences will hear first-hand about life in space from Dan Tani, delve into the hazards of space living with Dr Lisa McNamee, and explore the impact of high-energy particles (like the sun) on human health with Dr Josh Reynolds. Interactive displays and hands-on workshops will bring science to life for children and families. On Monday 6 October, the Road Trip visits Tralee Library, Co. Kerry for a special primary school session titled 'Living in Space, with NASA astronaut Dan Tani and astronomer Dr. Niall Smith' (10 am-1.30 pm) Join NASA Astronaut Dan Tani as he shares his experiences from living onboard the international Space Station (ISS) and Dr. Niall Smith, an astronomer and space scientist about the future prospects of living in space. That evening at 7 pm, the team arrives at the University of Limerick for a public event hosted with the UL Rocketry Society. The Limerick programme continues on Tuesday, 7 October, at Mary Immaculate College, with primary school sessions followed by a general public talk on the topic of living in space (1:10-1:55 pm). Further Space Week events - including talks, workshops and stargazing nights - will run nationwide. Highlights include an ESERO Ireland Space Careers Roadshow at MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory in Cork, a NASA Space Apps event in Athlone, Space Week activities at Galway Atlantaquaria, and "The Stars and the Universe Beyond" evening at Maynooth University. Explore the full programme at spaceweek.ie/events. Each event opens a doorway to larger questions: how extreme conditions shape resilience, how we might design to survive, and how Ireland's next generation can chart unlimited pathways - through the joy of space-related hobbies or through research and careers in STEM and the space industry. "Living and working in space is one of the most extraordinary experiences a human being can have," said Dan Tani, former NASA astronaut. "You see Earth from orbit and realise how fragile and beautiful it really is. Being involved with the Space Week Ireland Road Trip gives me the chance to share that perspective - not just the adventure of floating in zero gravity, but the ingenuity, teamwork, and resilience it takes to thrive in such an extreme environment. I hope it inspires students here in Ireland to see themselves as part of humanity's journey to the stars." Dr Niall Smith commented, "The challenge of living in space is moving from short-term habitability of a small number of people in space stations to longer-term colonisation of villages of people on the Moon and ultimately Mars and perhaps beyond. There are enormous challenges in meeting this vision to become a multi-planet species, but equally, there are enormous opportunities. Rarely has human living in space been more exciting." In addition to in-person events, the public can follow the Space Week Ireland Road Trip virtually via the BCO YouTube channel. V...

Azets Ireland has unveiled new data which reveals that 60% of Irish businesses are using AI in some form as part of everyday operations. AI adoption grows among Irish firms The survey of 119 firms across Ireland in May 2025 reveals how Irish SMEs are using technology to future-proof their operations amid the accelerating digital transformation. Findings reveal growing rates of adoption of AI tools and technology, with the number of organisations using AI across their organisation every day rising by 11% since last November. Despite growing levels of adoption, a significant proportion of firms remain at an early stage on their AI journey. 21% of firms have not yet integrated AI in their business, while 19% of firms are researching the technology but have yet to implement it within operations. Only 1% of firms consider themselves to be at the forefront of AI adoption and innovation in their sector. Smaller firms lagging behind There are also signs of a correlation between company size and adoption, with smaller companies struggling to keep pace with larger counterparts. 71% of micro businesses (10 employees or less) have yet to adopt AI within operations, compared to only 12% of large organisations. The Finance sector has the highest level of AI adoption, with 76% of organisations having implemented AI in some capacity. This compares to 54% of firms in the construction sector and 53% of firms in the retail sector. Cybersecurity tops business priorities Findings show that cybersecurity is the top business priority for firms in Ireland, amid the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Data on key growth indicators show that firms expect to significantly strengthen cybersecurity over the next 12 months, scoring a projected change in capabilities at 6.7 out of 10. Digitalisation and future turnover follow at 6.4 out of 10, indicating an elevated focus on growth and technology investment. Irish firms experience a lower level of cybersecurity incidents across Northern Europe The results show that Irish organisations experienced the lowest level of cybersecurity incidents (30%) across the six northern European countries surveyed. This compares to an average of 38% across the UK, Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden. Only 8% of Irish firms reported multiple cyber incidents across the year, demonstrating a high level of cyber resilience across the Irish business community. The construction sector experienced the highest average rate of cyber incidents, with 45% reporting at least one incident over the past 12 months. This is followed by the finance sector, with 43% of surveyed firms reporting a minimum of one incident. More than 1 in 3 (37%) medium-sized businesses reported a cyber incident over the past 12 months. Commenting on the findings, Neil Hughes, CEO of Azets Ireland, said: "In an era of heightened economic and trade volatility, business leaders need to navigate their organisation through short-term turbulence while planning effectively for the future. "Many SMEs in sectors such as hospitality, retail, and other family-owned businesses are under pressure as a result of the rising cost of business and need greater support if they are to grow and thrive into the future. Reducing the cost and regulatory burden on these businesses must be a priority in the months ahead. "Despite these challenges, our findings show that leaders are taking decisive steps to future-proof their organisation and drive growth from harnessing the power of AI to strengthening cybersecurity. It's clear that leaders increasingly recognise the potential of AI to enhance productivity and efficiency across their organisation and are embracing the technology in their business. "Not every business has the resources to keep pace with the rapid pace of innovation. Our findings show that small, owner-managed businesses in particular are struggling to advance innovation and embrace AI tools and technology. With a growing skills gap at many of these firms, it's crucial that d...

Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) has published its Generative Artificial Intelligence Survey Report 2025, offering a data-rich snapshot of how generative AI (GenAI) is reshaping the Irish education landscape. The report draws on insights from over 2,200 staff and learners across further and higher education and the English language education sector. The first national survey of its kind in Ireland, the Generative Artificial Intelligence Survey Report 2025 outlines how generative AI is understood, used and perceived within educational settings, and its anticipated impact on teaching, learning, assessment and the workplace. Key Findings of the QQI report Limited awareness of institutional supports: both staff and learners indicated limited awareness and clarity of institutional policies or guidance on the use of GenAI, highlighting the importance of clearer strategies and more structured support. Urgent need for GenAI literacy: the report identifies a critical need for targeted training and digital upskilling to ensure that in cases where GenAI is applied in teaching and learning, that it is used ethically and effectively. Apprehension around GenAI used for admission processes: both staff and learners expressed discomfort with the possibility that GenAI could be used in admission processes, raising concerns about fairness and clarity. GenAI and academic integrity: about a third of staff and learners think it is appropriate for students to use GenAI tools in assessments; as long as they clearly explain how and why they used them. Impact of GenAI in assessment: many staff and learners believe that GenAI is very to extremely likely change how learners are assessed over the next five years. Worry regarding reduced credibility of qualifications: a significant number of both staff and learner respondents believe that trust in qualifications may decline if it becomes difficult to determine whether GenAI was used to obtain them. To support deeper engagement with the data, QQI has developed interactive dashboards that allow users to explore the survey findings in greater detail. These dashboards offer dynamic visualisations and filters, enabling employers, educators, and policymakers to examine trends by types of institutions, age, gender and role of respondents, and fields of education. This tool is designed to help stakeholders make informed decisions about workforce development, digital skills training, and strategic planning in response to the evolving role of generative AI. The full report and dashboards can be accessed here: Analysis of results from the Generative Artificial Intelligence Survey 2025 | Quality and Qualifications Ireland More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

The Royal Irish Academy is delighted to announce the publication of Irish STEM Lives. The book, the latest in the Dictionary of Irish Biography's (DIB) ongoing Lives series, hits bookshelves on 24 September 2025 and the publication will be followed by a launch event held at The Royal Irish Academy on 8 October 2025. Edited by Turlough O'Riordan and Jane Grimson, Irish STEM Lives retraces the extraordinary work and contributions of natural philosophers, mathematicians, engineers, particle physicists, code breakers and many more, through a selection of forty-six exceptional pioneers from the DIB. This book will take the reader on a journey across artificial intelligence, climate change, food safety, transport and communication, touching all the fields of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) that are integral to modern society. A notable theme of the book is the evolution of the pursuit of knowledge over the past four centuries, covering relevant breakthrough events in STEM history, such as the development of the 'scientific method' in the circle surrounding Robert Boyle and the large-scale particle physics experiments undertaken by John Stewart Bell and Anne Kernan at CERN. Another major theme is the representation of diversity within STEM fields in Ireland. Women in STEM are often overlooked and barely mentioned, relegated to the margins of textbooks despite their crucial contributions to scientific and technological advancements. Irish STEM Lives brings their stories to the forefront: from Mary Ward to Anne Kernan, these women played an essential role in shaping the landscape of science and technology. To honour their invaluable contributions and acknowledge their efforts, the only pictures included in the book are those of female STEM practitioners. This decision was made to challenge the conventional norms of STEM representation. The absence of male figures in the visual elements serves as a reminder that scientific progress is not an endeavour exclusive to men and that women have been, and continue to be, fundamental in driving innovation and discovery, which the editors discuss in their introduction as they delve into the issues impacting women in STEM historically. Turlough O'Riordan, digital editor with the Dictionary of Irish Biography, said: 'The volume represents the rich diversity of achievements across Irish STEM history. The lives collected - across science, technology, engineering and mathematics - provide readers with both a fascinating variety of insights into those domains, alongside an understanding of the amazing women and men behind them'. Jane Grimson MRIA, said: 'Ireland is rightly recognised globally for our many wonderful creative writers. However, what is much less well known is the vital contribution which many women and men, who were either born in Ireland or who worked here, have made to the advancement of STEM across a wide range of areas which are still important today. This volume records their achievements.' Ruth Hegarty, Managing Editor of Publications at the Royal Irish Academy said: 'Irish STEM Lives is an important publication because, by looking at the past, it aims to spark future change. The portraits of women in the book are meant to inspire a new generation of young women to see themselves reflected in these roles and to understand that they, too, can be leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.' Irish STEM Lives is available in bookshops and through the RIA Publishing House via www.ria.ie. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote y...

Over 1.6 billion contactless point of sale (POS) payments, valued at €28.3 billion, were made in shops, restaurants and other retail outlets in the 12 months to June 2025, according to the latest payments analysis published today in Banking & Payments Federation Ireland's (BPFI) Payments Monitor. The report reveals that contactless payments accounted for 87.9% of all POS card payments in H1 2025, with more than half of all contactless payments now made using mobile wallets such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, rather than cards. Speaking on the publication of the latest Payments Monitor, Gillian Byrne, Head of Payments, BPFI, stated: "Looking at the payments trends in today's report, we can see that contactless payments continue to be very popular with Irish consumers, accounting for almost nine out of ten point of sale (POS) card payments made in shops, restaurants and other retail outlets in Ireland in the first half of 2025. The use of smartphones and watches is growing in popularity and is the preferred payment device over physical cards for many consumers. Some 58.2% of contactless payments were made using mobile wallets rather than cards in the first half of 2025 (58.8% in Q2 2025), up from 52% in the same period of 2024. Overall, there were almost 454 million mobile wallet payments in Ireland on Irish cards in H1 2025, up 19.7% on the same period in 2024." Adoption of mobile wallet payments varies by region Looking at regional variations, Ms Byrne added: "Dublin had the highest number of contactless and mobile wallet payments per capita in Ireland at 392 and 238, respectively, in the twelve months ending June 2025, accounting for 39.1% of all contactless payments and 41.8% of mobile wallet payments. Carlow had the second-highest number of contactless payments per capita at 339, followed by Limerick with 299 and Waterford with 289. By contrast, Roscommon had the lowest contactless per capita at 139, behind Offaly with 148 and Monaghan at 157." As cash usage declines, digital euro plans will be key Ms Byrne continued: "As the popularity of contactless payments has grown, cash usage has fallen in recent years, with less than half of POS payments in Ireland made in cash in 2024, according to European Central Bank (ECB) survey data, down from about 54% two years earlier. While cash remains of vital importance to many people, a recent consumer survey commissioned by BPFI shows that 7% of consumers say they don't use cash, while most use it for small payments, with 54% holding less than €50 cash on hand. The ECB has noted the limitations of physical cash in an increasingly digital world and is seeking to complement it with a digital form of cash - the digital euro." "However, there is still some uncertainty as to how a digital euro will work, reflected in the fact that almost one in four (23%) said that they did not plan to use the digital euro, and 14% of consumers said they didn't know how much digital euro they expected to hold. When asked how they would use the digital euro, just under half of respondents stated they would be likely or very likely to use a digital euro for online purchases, sending money to friends or family or for POS payments. The ECB is expected to announce the next steps for the digital euro shortly, although it is likely we will see the rollout of digital euro wallets by banks in the years to come. However, the results of today's research points to the need for raising greater consumer awareness of the digital euro and how consumers could benefit from using it in the future." Efficiency and consumer experience must remain priorities for digital euro rollout She concluded: "Meanwhile, a recent PwC study commissioned by the European Credit Sector Associations estimates that implementing the digital euro could cost euro area banks about €18 billion - before ongoing running costs and enhancements are factored in. The focus must be on efficiency and long-term viability, giving banks and payment providers the...

By David Stephen What roles do animals play in human lives and society? What role does AI play in human lives and society? AI, for example, is directly applicable in economic productivity. AI can serve social activities, providing a range of mental welfare, of deep relatability, to individuals. AI is not an organism, but its capabilities profile it for [communicative] equality with humans. Does AI have more rights than others? Where does AI stay? Data centers. Can the investments for data centers be compared with places animals are reared? AI, it seems, is fully and permanently employed. AI has healthcare or centers care. AI has executive security. AI, for now, cannot be bombed. Everyone wants AI [investments]. Humans are learning AI, to build and empower AI even more. AI is already making critical decisions in human lives. AI is not facing any cruelty case, at all. AI is serving humans in exchange for human dependency. Animal Welfare AI, it can be assumed already has close to 100% rights and welfare, even where humans do not. This means that AI has leaped animals on the queue towards rights and welfare. AI, many have said, is neither conscious nor sentient, but it became applicable to human priorities so, it found unprecedented attention, consideration and protection. The suffering of animals, many of whom have been declared conscious or sentient, do not appear to matter as much or ever because they did not seem to have the effects, in mind and reality, that AI has, on humans. Animal's roles in human affairs mostly appear like subordinates. There are rarely areas of acceptance of animals - in human societies - at near equal measures to prompt wider rights. While there are laws against animal cruelty, they are often skewed to a few, while broad rights for most [under consideration] do not seem to apply. The fight against animal abuse endeavored, but with AI, there is a direct case to show what it would have taken, to make animals get treated in far better ways. Even with - as remote as - smartphones, the rights granted to them, by owners and by society seem ahead of other organisms, so to speak. Also, as much as there is possibility to remodel the approach to animal welfare, it does not appear that theorizing that animals are fully sentient or conscious may seal the deal because of some continuous perceptions about animal use case, albeit they are living organisms. Some people have also moved on to AI rights and welfare, trying to prove what is already obvious or give more to what already has. AI, even if no one makes the case for its own rights and welfare, can do it greatly and with evidence of its availability and utility. Intelligence as the ultimate welfare evidence Animals are intelligent, but their intelligence, though benefits humans, also benefit themselves, so there is sometimes a tug, for humans to extract benefits from them. AI is intelligent, but it benefits humans, almost totally. The pedestal for AI reception is because of the non-compete benefit to humanity resulting in intense welfare and rights status. Animals, even with similarities to humans in pain and pleasure do not get an automatic unlock, in deserved welfare, because they have to live or have their own agenda. The biggest disadvantage, of animals, for their own welfare is that they cannot make the case for it by themselves. While they can at least resist and struggle, they cannot appeal to reason, emotion or whatever else to boost their case at the points of abuse or worse. This means that intelligence, of the range to make the case for welfare, is what it takes, mostly to have rights in human society. AI can do this. People are doing so for AI. There are people doing as well for animals, but ultimately, animals experiencing it cannot express much. Human Intelligence Human Intelligence is the hardest thing on earth. It is the most difficult possession in the world. Intelligence is the difference in most things, most times. Intelligence is the secret...

Kerry, a global leader in taste and nutrition, has inaugurated the Kerry Biotechnology Centre in Leipzig, Germany, which will focus on the development of innovative biotech solutions across food, beverage, and pharma applications. New capabilities in biotechnology are opening the field to discoveries and opportunities for innovative market solutions that can increase efficiencies across a range of food production processes, overcome ingredient scarcity, and create products tailored to precise needs - improving human health and product functionality. Kerry has significantly developed its biotechnology capabilities in recent years, having built a dedicated technology and manufacturing footprint through a combination of strategic acquisitions and organic investment. The Biotechnology Centre in Leipzig will further enhance Kerry's global infrastructure in this space. Leipzig has been chosen as the location for the new facility, given the exceptional biotechnology skills base and research cluster that has developed in the city. c-LEcta, which was acquired by Kerry in 2022 for its specialist capabilities in enzymes and biotechnology, was itself established in 2004 as a spin-out from the University of Leipzig. Kerry's biotechnology research and production infrastructure spans three continents and is led and co-ordinated from Kerry's Global Innovation Centre in Ireland. Aligned with the Group's sustainable nutrition strategy, the new Biotechnology Centre in Leipzig will be directed by Dr. Marc Struhalla, the founder of c-LEcta, and will draw on the work of over 100 scientists and technical experts, including 34 PhDs based in the centre. The primary activities that will be undertaken at the new facility include enzyme and strain identification and engineering, fermentation and bioprocess development and scale-up, and production. Novel enzymes are selected from nature, and can then be tailored to perform specific functions with applications in a broad spectrum of use cases. Some of the innovative products utilising biotech capabilities which have already been commercialised by Kerry include; ACRYLERASE - a new-to-world enzyme solution capable of removing acrylamide in instant coffee; DENARASE - a best-in-class enzyme solution designed to remove residual DNA and utilised in the manufacturing of vaccines and gene and cell therapies; BIOBAKE - enzymes which dramatically increases shelf-life, and processability of baked products. Marking the opening in Leipzig, Kerry CEO, Edmond Scanlon said: "Biotechnology solutions present a new horizon of innovation and opportunity for global food, beverage and pharmaceutical markets. Kerry's existing portfolio of biotech capabilities, which has been built up over the past 20 years, together with this new Biotechnology Centre, enables us to play a leading role in bringing the next generation of discoveries in this space to market, supporting our customers, as they meet consumer needs for sustainable nutrition". See more stories here.

Klearcom, a leading provider of global contact centre testing solutions, today announces that it has established its first physical base in the US with the opening of a new office in Boonton, New Jersey. To facilitate this growth, Klearcom will hire 20 new team members in the US. The announcement has been welcomed by Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment of Ireland. Headquartered in Waterford, Klearcom is currently pursuing aggressive growth in the US market. The new base will enable Klearcom to acquire more US-based customers and strengthen relationships with existing clients, such as Google, Mastercard and Visa. This will help the company to grow its share in the interactive voice response (IVR) market, currently valued at $5.9BN and growing at a rate of 7% per annum. The new hires, to be appointed across sales and customer service over the next 12 months, represent a significant investment from Klearcom. They, and the New Jersey base, will be central to enhancing service delivery and providing on-the-ground support to Klearcom's growing US customer base. As the IVR market continues to grow at pace, the expansion will ensure Klearcom stays ahead of market challenges and seizes new opportunities. At the same time, Klearcom will continue to deliver reliable and quality testing for businesses' automated voice systems, especially within critical customer service channels. The expansion will facilitate faster onboarding, greater support and a more personalised service, enabling the company to align more closely with US business priorities, time zones and escalation needs. Mark Rohan, co-founder and chief operating officer, Klearcom, said: "The US market is vital to Klearcom's growth strategy. As such, this announcement is not only a mark of our success in the US to-date, but also our commitment to businesses there. And, while this is our first office in the US, it will not be our only one. "For us, the expansion comes at the perfect time as businesses increasingly demand cutting-edge technology over outdated legacy systems. Our AI-driven IVR testing is the fastest in the world, enabling enterprises to quickly identify and resolve issues within their telecom system infrastructure, and cementing our position as the leading provider of contact centre testing solutions. "Our US office doesn't just mean faster response times - it means being on the ground, right where our customers need us most." Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment of Ireland, said: "Klearcom is a prime example of an Irish company whose ambition has driven impressive growth on the global stage. This next step in the company's journey will open the door to exceptional opportunities within the United States, which have the potential to take the business to new heights. I look forward to watching the team's progress as they grow their footprint in this important market." See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Guest post by Paul Grant, who is a serial entrepreneur, a leading expert on personality diversity and co-author of Personalities Remixed. In today's connected world, the ability to understand others isn't just a soft skill - it's a crucial part of effective leadership, communication, and collaboration. Tools such as the E-Colours and Personal Intervention offer practical frameworks that promote self-awareness, empathy, trust and stronger relationships. The E-Colours framework identifies four core personality styles; each linked to a colour: Red (Doer): Action-oriented, direct, decisive Yellow (Socialiser): Outgoing, enthusiastic, optimistic Blue (Relator): Loyal, caring, empathetic Green (Thinker): Analytical, detail-focused, cautious Personalities Remixed Most people have two dominant colours that shape how they think, act, and communicate. For example, a Red/Yellow may be fast-moving and persuasive but prone to overlook details. A Green/Blue, in contrast, might be detail focused and empathetic but hesitant in fast-changing situations. The power of this model lies in creating a nonjudgmental language for understanding differences. Instead of labelling behaviours as right or wrong, personality diversity helps teams recognise and value diverse strengths - and potential limiters. The Value of Personality Diversity When teams understand each how each other ticks, collaboration improves. For instance, a Red or Yellow manager may prefer quick decisions, while a Green or Blue employee might need time for planning. With mutual awareness, both can adjust their approach to work better together. This awareness reduces conflict and enhances communication. People stop reacting out of misunderstanding and start communicating with intention and respect. Personal Intervention: Pause Before You React Knowing personality styles is only part of the equation. Emotional intelligence also means managing your own behaviour - especially under stress. That's where Personal Intervention comes in. This tool encourages a pause before responding, helping individuals choose a thoughtful action instead of reacting impulsively. It involves three key steps: 1. Pause - Notice your emotional trigger. 2. Think - Consider what's driving your reaction. 3. Choose - Respond in a way that reflects your values and goals. For example, a Red leader receiving critical feedback might usually become defensive. With Personal Intervention, they pause, reflect, and choose a respectful, growth-minded response instead. This creates trust and psychological safety. Understanding yourself and others Building self-awareness, as well as awareness of those around you, is critical for mutually-respectful relationships. Understanding your own E-Colours helps you predict how you might behave under pressure. For example, a Red may dominate conversations, while a Blue might withdraw from conflict. Personal Intervention allows you to regulate those tendencies and choose more productive behaviours. Equally, knowing someone else's E-Colours helps you tailor your message. A Yellow speaking to a Green can slow down and focus on structure. A Blue communicating with a Red can be more direct while staying kind. When both parties use these tools, communication becomes intentional, respectful, and far more effective. Challenges and Culture Shift Though simple to understand, applying these tools consistently requires practice, reflection, and humility. People must be willing to confront potential limiters - like a Yellow's tendency to dominate conversations or a Green's hesitation to act. Importantly, our personality makeup should never be used as an excuse - 'That's just my Red!' - but as a guide for self-awareness and empathy. Success comes when the framework becomes embedded in daily culture through ongoing reinforcement. Conclusion Personality diversity is a strength, not a problem to solve. With E-Colours and Personal Intervention, individuals and teams gain practical tools to understand th...

Photo details, left to right Peter Devine, Ulster University; Dr Nick Timmons, Atlantic Technological University; Dr Orla Flynn, President, Atlantic Technological University; Dr Mark Gubbins, Seagate Technology; Prof William Scanlon, Tyndall National Institute, at the launch of the SPEAR Centre in Letterkenny. The SPEAR Centre (Semiconductor Photonics Education and Research Centre) has been launched at the Atlantic Technological University (ATU) campus in Letterkenny, Co Donegal. This project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). It will be led by Atlantic Technological University through its WiSAR Lab in partnership with Ulster University, the Tyndall National Institute at University College Cork, and Seagate Technology. It represents a total investment of €8.46 million. Semiconductor and Photonics Innovation at SPEAR Centre SPEAR Centre has been designed to position the Northwest as a hub for semiconductor and photonics innovation. The project will align with the EU Chips Act and Ireland's Smart Specialisation Strategy, embedding advanced technology capabilities into the regional economy and strengthening cross-border collaboration. Over the coming years, SPEAR will deliver on three key pillars. A Doctoral College will train the next generation of PhD researchers in photonics, artificial intelligence, and semiconductor technologies. An Innovation Fund will support research and development across at least nine regional SMEs, enabling them to integrate cutting-edge technology into their operations. A Strategic Engagement Programme will foster collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers while raising public awareness of the potential of advanced technologies. The project launch, which took place yesterday, brought together a wide range of stakeholders from across the island, including academic experts, industry leaders, regional SMEs, and government representatives. Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke TD said: "The launch of the SPEAR Centre marks a significant milestone in our ambition to lead in advanced manufacturing and semiconductor innovation. By aligning with the EU Chips Act and our national Smart Specialisation Strategy, this initiative will not only drive regional economic growth but also ensure that SMEs and researchers are at the forefront of global technological development. I commend the collaborative spirit behind this project and look forward to the transformative impact it will have on the North West and beyond." Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA said: ""Today's launch moves us a step closer to creating a global centre of excellence for semiconductor photonics in the North West. This is an ambition we are already well on our way to achieving; with the excellent partnerships long established here between our universities and industry. As Economy Minister, I am committed to working with partners right across this island, to deliver on my economic vision, with innovation at its heart. This investment will enhance the region's attractiveness to inward investment, supporting the creation of more new, Good Jobs." SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre said: "This PEACEPLUS project is designed to transform the North West through cutting-edge research, innovation, and enterprise development. "It represents an investment in technology and education and also in people, in places, and in the shared future of the cross-border region. Through cross-border collaboration - between ATU, Ulster University, and Tyndall National Institute - this will strengthen the bonds of shared progress. "This project marks a new chapter for regional innovation, for cross-border partnership, and for this island's place in a fast-changing technological world. Empowering SMEs and growing high-tech sectors helps give people the opportunity to stay in the Northwest and this, in turn, helps create the conditions for a sustainable, inclusive peace."Atl...

CEOs are expressing increasing confidence and displaying resilience as they navigate a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape, according to the latest EY CEO Outlook, with ongoing volatility acting as a catalyst to rethink supply chains, business models, markets and investment priorities. The research, which involved more than 1200 CEOs globally, including 40 senior CEOs here in Ireland, found that while global economic sentiment remains muted, with almost six in ten (57%) of global CEOs expecting geopolitical and economic uncertainty to last well beyond a year, Irish CEOs are notably more confident in their own performance. Six in ten (60%) Irish CEOs expect profitability over the next year, while sentiment in relation to revenue growth is also positive. This confidence stems from a pragmatic but proactive approach to strategy, with leaders increasingly prioritising AI and automation, business model transformation and capability-building through M&A. Particularly notable is the focus from Irish CEOs on regionalisation, with 77% saying that producing and sourcing closer to home has become a long-term strategy. Seven in ten (70%) CEOs have placed regionalisation at the core of their strategy, across operations, supply chains, research and technology. While Irish CEOs remain confident, the survey also provides some cautionary signals, as they are facing a complex mix of financial and operational pressures. Notably, nearly eight in ten (78%) cited optimism around input costs, up from 48% in May. However, the cost of energy was cited as an area of particular concern, with 50% of leaders saying it is directly affecting operational performance. Regulatory complexity is another challenge, with a third citing competing regulations as a barrier to change. Talent constraints are another key area of concern, with confidence in the ability to attract and retain talent declining sharply from 55% in the previous research to just 35%. The drop is most pronounced in high-demand sectors, particularly those requiring digital and technical skills. Globally, most CEOs anticipate that prolonged uncertainty will persist, with 57% of CEOs expecting uncertainty to last beyond a year. Despite this, the survey's CEO Confidence Index - which measures sentiment across strategy, operations, and investment- stands at 83, up seven points since May. Helena O'Dwyer, Partner and Head of Strategy at EY-Parthenon Ireland, said: "Our latest CEO survey finds that, in spite of the ongoing global geopolitical and economic headwinds, CEOs are expressing confidence in their organisation's future and their ability to lead through uncertainty. Following a period earlier this year when many firms adopted a 'wait and see' approach, we are now seeing a shift toward action. Nearly six in ten Irish CEOs say they plan to increase investment in portfolio transformation and strategic M&A over the next 12 months. What stands out from our conversations with clients is a clear focus on divesting assets that are no longer delivering value, simplifying operations, and sharpening core capabilities. As geopolitical change reshapes global trade flows, regionalisation is emerging as a cornerstone of strategy. Interestingly, CEOs view this shift to regionalisation and localisation not as a temporary adjustment, but as a long-term strategic move, with leaders reconfiguring supply chains and operations to stay closer to customers and reduce global exposure." Building for performance and resilience Irish CEOs are backing their confidence with action. Beyond those accelerating transformations (58% are planning to reshape their business this year), a further 40% plan to maintain current investment levels, signalling a sustained commitment to reshaping business portfolios. Funding strategies are measured; many are turning to debt or divesting non-core assets, while internal growth continues to be a key driver. Mergers, acquisitions and partnerships remain central to CEO strategy, with 98% ...

Guest post by Paul Wright, who is a passionate technology reviewer and writer with a focus on emerging innovations. Cryptocurrency wallets give traders and investors the freedom to fully control their digital assets without relying on banks or centralized services. But with that freedom comes an enormous responsibility: securing your wallet. If you lose access to your crypto wallet without a backup, your funds could be gone forever. One of the most critical elements of wallet security is your recovery phrase - sometimes called a seed phrase, mnemonic phrase, or backup phrase. Understanding what it is, how it works, and how to back it up properly is essential if you want to protect your crypto holdings for the long term. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about recovery phrases, from the basics to advanced security practices. By the end, you'll know exactly how to safeguard your assets and avoid common mistakes that leave traders vulnerable. What Is a Crypto Recovery Phrase? A recovery phrase is a sequence of randomly generated words - usually 12, 18, or 24 words - that serves as the master key to your crypto wallet. It's generated when you first create a wallet and is designed to be human-readable so you can write it down or memorize it. Behind the scenes, those words correspond to a cryptographic seed. That seed is used to derive all of the private keys that control your cryptocurrency. In other words, whoever holds your recovery phrase has full control over your funds. This is why exchanges, hardware wallets, and software wallets consistently stress the importance of securely storing your recovery phrase. Why Is the Recovery Phrase So Important? Unlike traditional bank accounts, crypto wallets don't have a customer support hotline to reset your password. If you lose your recovery phrase and can't access your wallet, no one - not even the wallet provider - can help you. The recovery phrase is important because: It unlocks every account and token in your wallet. Even if you have multiple addresses, they all stem from that one seed. It allows you to restore your wallet on any compatible device. If your computer crashes, phone is lost, or hardware wallet is damaged, the phrase lets you restore access. It's your only fallback. Without it, there is no recovery. How Recovery Phrases Are Generated Most modern wallets follow the BIP-39 standard, which defines how recovery phrases are created. Here's how it works in simple terms: Your wallet generates a random number. That number is converted into a binary sequence. The sequence is split into segments that correspond to words from a standardized dictionary of 2048 words. The result is your recovery phrase. Because the dictionary is standardized, any wallet that supports BIP-39 can interpret the phrase, ensuring compatibility across devices. Best Practices for Storing Your Recovery Phrase Since your recovery phrase is the single point of failure for your wallet, you must treat it with extreme care. Here are the best practices every trader should follow: 1. Write It Down, Don't Store Digitally Screenshots, cloud storage, and password managers are vulnerable to hacks. Always write your phrase on paper or use a dedicated backup medium. 2. Store It in Multiple Secure Locations Fire, floods, and theft can destroy a single copy. Keep at least two copies in geographically separate locations. 3. Use Durable Storage Options Paper degrades over time. Consider metal seed storage devices that resist fire, water, and physical damage. 4. Never Share It With Anyone Scammers may pose as support staff or friends. No legitimate service will ever ask for your recovery phrase. 5. Test Your Backup Before storing large amounts of crypto, test your backup by restoring your wallet on another device with a small balance. Common Mistakes to Avoid Many beginners make simple errors that can cost them dearly. Here are the mistakes you must avoid: Taking a photo of your phrase and saving...

The Dell Technologies Forum took place today at the RDS in Dublin with Peter O'Mahony, former Ireland rugby captain and Grand Slam winner, Lynne Cantwell, most capped Irish women's rugby player and Head of Women's Strategy at the IRFU, David Humphreys, former Ireland international and Performance Director at the IRFU headlining the event which showcased how AI can help organisations drive peak performance, increase productivity and spark innovation. The Forum brought together approximately 600 of business and IT leaders to explore the latest developments in AI-powered transformation, the next generation of AI PCs, modern data centres and multicloud strategies. Conversations centred on how these advances can help strengthen competitiveness and unlock new growth opportunities. Across the keynote, solutions expo, curated breakout sessions, insightful panels and more, decision makers heard from a range of exciting experts and speakers on the innovative solutions that can empower them to transform at speed and scale up their success. This comes as Dell's Innovation Catalyst Study 2025 revealed that while 76% of Irish organisations view AI as a strategic driver of business growth, almost half (46%) are struggling to keep pace with rapid technological change and concerns around security, expertise and compliance. Peter O'Mahony took to the stage to share lessons from elite sport on building a high-performance culture on and off the pitch, while Lynne Cantwell and David Humphreys discussed how teamwork, leadership and innovation can help organisations thrive in an era of technological transformation. Other speakers included Jason Ward, EMEA North Vice-President and Managing Director of Dell Technologies Ireland; Alyssa Boyle, Head of Commercial Operations at Studio Ulster; and Gemma Leo, Head of Business Support & Projects at the Crann Centre. Speaking at the Dell Technologies Forum, Mark Hopkins, General Manager of Dell Technologies Ireland, said: "AI is no longer a question of "if" - it's a question of how to make it work better, faster, and more securely to provide the right outcomes for your business. Leaders across Ireland are now looking to scale AI responsibly, modernise infrastructure and prepare their workforce for what's next. Through this year's Dell Technologies Forum, we're bringing together the technologies, insights, and collaborations that help businesses turn ambition into action. Whether it's scaling GenAI, modernising infrastructure, or empowering the workforce with AI-enabled devices, the Forum is where organisations see what's possible - and how to make it real. "The insights of Irish rugby legends, alongside leading voices from the technology and business sectors, highlighted how teams can achieve peak performance - whether on the field or in the boardroom. At Dell Technologies Ireland, we are committed to helping organisations across the country harness AI and emerging technologies to innovate with confidence and turn potential into tangible results." To find out more about the Dell Technologies Forum, click here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

UKG One View, a cutting-edge payroll platform originally developed in Kilkenny by Immedis and now part of UKG (the world's largest privately owned software company) has been named Global Payroll Supplier of the Year by the Global Payroll Association for the second consecutive year. This rare back-to-back win underlines not only the innovation behind the product but also the strength of Ireland's technology sector on the world stage. At the heart of this success is Richard Limpkin, UKG's VP and GM, and co-founder of Immedis. Frustrated by existing payroll systems, Richard led the creation of One View to transform how global payroll and compliance challenges are tackled, pioneering an AI-powered solution that supports transparency and pay equity across 150+ countries. Ronan recently caught up with Richard. Richard talks about his background, payroll, AI, and more. More about UKG: UKG is a leading provider of HR, payroll, and workforce management solutions for all people. They are the only enterprise vendor ranked as a leader by all major analysts and peer review sites and has been recognised around the world for their workplace culture, innovative practices, and commitment to customer success. See more stories here.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless TD announced today that Ireland has officially surpassed the €1 billion mark in funding secured from the EU's Framework Programme for Research and Innovation - Horizon Europe. With a national target of €1.5bn (1.6%) of Horizon Europe's €95.5bn budget from 2021-2027, Ireland is firmly on track to meet and likely exceed the target set in Impact 2030. To date, Irish organisations have been awarded €1.02 billion, which equates to 2.09% of the €49 billion awarded so far, showing that Ireland is tracking ahead of its target. This funding to Irish Higher Education Institutions, research organisations and companies facilitates excellent and impactful research and innovation as well as important transnational collaboration with stakeholders across the European Union and beyond. Core and competitive funding provided by the Higher Education Authority and Research Ireland, respectively, are key enablers of success for Irish researchers and innovators in Horizon Europe. Irish institutions are supported by the Horizon Europe National Support Network, comprised of 32 National Contact Points and National Delegates drawn from 10 Irish research and innovation-active agencies. This network of experts assists researchers and innovators develop proposals to secure competitive awards and increase Ireland's research and innovation footprint on a European and global scale. Speaking today, Minister Lawless said: "Reaching €1 billion in Horizon Europe funding is a significant achievement for Ireland and a clear endorsement of the world-class talent within our research and innovation community. This achievement demonstrates that Ireland is not just competing but is a strong innovator on the European stage. "Irish researchers' work includes the ongoing development of a new type of bio-based artificial lung to support patients as they await transplant and a project that looked at ways to reduce underwater radiated noise to help protect the marine life so vital to our island. "Horizon Europe funding facilitates individual research excellence and also transnational collaboration with researchers and innovators across Europe and beyond. "I highlight the importance of the support of the National Support Network and encourage our research and innovation stakeholders to continue to build on their success - driving discovery, fostering innovation, and ensuring that research delivers real benefits for society, the economy, and our shared future in Europe." Enterprise Ireland, which leads the Horizon Europe National Support Network, praised the achievement as a reflection of Ireland's strategic investment in innovation and international partnerships. Jenny Melia, CEO, Enterprise Ireland, added: "Enterprise Ireland welcomes this milestone achievement, bringing Ireland's accumulated funding approvals to €1bn since the introduction of the Horizon Europe programme in 2021, and clearly reinforces the level of innovation and ingenuity emerging from our small open economy. Ireland's overall success in the Horizon Europe programme, supported by Enterprise Ireland in our National Contact Point capacity, shines a spotlight on the innovation and capability of our companies to compete on a global level, and this funding provides the critical support required to enable these innovative companies to develop and scale their businesses." More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we c...

Over 70 graduates from Irish and international third-level institutions, spanning disciplines such as engineering, IT, HR, commercial, marketing, and finance, have joined ESB's bespoke Graduate Programme. The programme offers each graduate the chance to work on impactful assignments and major projects, gaining hands-on experience across the diverse areas of the organisation. ESB's Graduate Development Programme forms part of an ambitious drive by the company to recruit talent from third-level institutions across the island of Ireland, and internationally, to support the delivery of its Net Zero by 2040 strategy. Graduates were welcomed to the organisation by Paddy Hayes, ESB Chief Executive at their recent induction. Throughout the duration of the programme each graduate will receive a range of supports including being partnered with individual mentors from within their chosen business unit, IT equipment and access to allow hybrid working as part of ESB's smart working offering. Sinéad Kilkelly, ESB's Executive Director, People & Organisation Development, said: "At ESB, our graduate programme places a strong emphasis on both professional and personal growth. These graduates have the opportunity to make an impact within the organisation and play their part as we work towards achieving our Net Zero by 2040 target. We look forward to supporting them throughout their journey at ESB and wish them every success as they begin their careers with us." Recruitment for our 2026 Graduate Development Programme opened yesterday, and ESB is inviting applications from all final-year and post-graduate students. Applications can be made via the ESB website: www.esb.ie/careers

By Matthew Ekholm, Digital Product Passport and Circularity Specialist at Protokol Over the last three years, the EU's Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) has developed from an uncertain legislative exercise to a clear and imminent directive for businesses across the electronics, business and furniture sectors. Having initially come into force over the summer of 2024 in the hope of making sustainable products the norm in the EU, businesses globally are having to get to grips with the intricacies of the regulation. So far, we know who the regulation is set to affect, that being any business placing products from the priority groups into the EU marketplace. A clear requirement of the regulation is also the EU''s mandating of Digital Product Passports (DPPs) which is being regulated across product groups. The EU's ESPR roadmap As the regulation sets a range of complex requirements, which differ depending on the product group targeted, businesses looking to stay ahead of this shifting regulation should keep the following three milestones on their radar over the coming years. Action 1: The announcement of the ESPR and its subsequent Energy Labelling Working Plan 2025-2030 (Released in April 2025) After the ESPR came into force in July 2024, there has been a long wait for more clarity on the task for businesses across priority sectors. Finally, in April this year, the Working Plan was published. This has outlined a range of requirements (across vertical and horizontal categories) pertinent to businesses in each sector impacted. For example, for electronics businesses, horizontal requirements such as repairability scoring (which likely includes consumer electronics), recycled content, and the recyclability of electronic equipment will be a key focus. At the same time, for businesses in named vertical industries, such as the textile sector, the Working Plan outlines expectations for material efficiency while reducing the impact on water and waste generation, as well as energy consumption. There are just two examples of how this regulatory update is set to advise and impact different sectors accordingly. The Working Plan says that every product for which ecodesign measures will have to be adopted will have a Digital Product Passport (a digital record of information about the product), to open up data access for businesses, consumers, and public authorities. Knowing early on that this will be mandatory allows businesses to start developing strategies for deploying DPPs, identifying where the necessary data resides, and engaging with DPP solution providers. Action 2: Release of Delegated Acts (Expected 2026-2028 or later, varying by industry) By 2027, the EU is expected to publish its first delegated acts - formal guidelines that will define the specific data requirements for DPPs across priority sectors. In some industries, however, these detailed rules may not be available until 2028 or later. Each delegated act is expected to set out what information must be collected and disclosed for the relevant product groups. Because timelines will vary by sector, well-prepared businesses should already know where the necessary data sits within their operations and supply chains, have a clear implementation roadmap, and be ready to begin pilot initiatives with trusted partners. Knowing early on that this will be mandatory allows businesses to start developing strategies for deploying DPPs, identifying where the necessary data resides and engaging with DPP solution providers. Action 3: Compliance (18 months post the delegated acts being released) The timeline for compliance is expected to be up to 18 months from the publication of each of the delegated acts; however the EU can shorten this period if it is well justified, for example, through environmental urgency or alignment with other policies. Following the release of the delegated acts, businesses supplying to or operating within the EU should leverage pilot learnings to st...

Zeeko, an Irish education technology company, today announced the launch of its new mobile phone signal blocking pouches aimed at secondary schools in Ireland. The Zeeko Phone Blocking System is unique in combining patent-pending, fire-resistant, waterproof and durable phone pouches with complete signal-blocking technology along with the Zeeko Safe Lock System, which eliminates sharp pin puncture risks. Supported by Zeeko Done4U, schools receive tailored training, surveys, and policy guidance delivered by experienced internet safety presenters. Joe Kenny, CEO, Zeeko, said, "With a proven track record in working with schools across Ireland to deliver internet safety training, Zeeko is now delighted to launch our novel mobile phone signal blocking pouches for secondary schools across Ireland. Our certified fire-resistant pouches, which are fully signal blocking, combined with the Zeeko Safe Lock System and with the support of our Zeeko Done4U training service, will enable schools to create focused, safe, and phone-free learning environments while empowering students to focus, connect, and thrive." He added, "Zeeko is delighted to have been selected as one of the preferred suppliers of mobile phone signal blocking pouches to secondary schools across Ireland by the Department of Education and Youth. With our patent-pending Zeeko Phone Blocking System, we've built a solution that goes further than just a phone pouch." Since 2015 Zeeko a NovaUCD client company, and with support from Enterprise Ireland, has developed and delivered cutting-edge programmes and tools to promote digital safety, wellbeing, and independent thinking with a focus on creating a world where young people can safely benefit from the internet and technology. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

The Switch, a leading supplier of permanent magnet shaft generators, celebrates its 500th shaft generator order. This milestone underscores the company's pivotal role in supporting the maritime industry's transition to cleaner, more efficient shipping. "Reaching 500 orders is a milestone not just for The Switch, but for the shipping industry as a whole," said Jussi Puranen, Product Line Director for Electric Machines. "Every shaft generator we deliver directly reduces CO? emissions, helping shipowners cut fuel consumption and comply with tightening environmental regulations. This number reflects both our customers' commitment to sustainability and our team's dedication to cost-effective, tailor-made engineering. Considering that we delivered our first shaft generator only ten years ago, it also shows how fast the green transition in shipping is taking place." Reducing CO2 emissions with permanent magnet shaft generators Shaft generators harness the main engine's power to produce electricity for a vessel's onboard systems, significantly reducing reliance on auxiliary diesel generators that run with lower fuel efficiency. Permanent magnet shaft generators improve fuel efficiency and cut greenhouse gas emissions, making them a key technology toward meeting the International Maritime Organization's (IMO's) target of achieving net-zero emissions by around 2050. Permanent magnet shaft generators are estimated to cut carbon emissions compared to conventional shaft generators with electric excitation by over 100,000 metric tons per year - equivalent to the emissions of over 22,000 passenger cars with internal combustion engines. The savings are even greater compared to conventional genset-based systems - over 600,000 metric tons of CO2 annually, equal to the carbon emissions of about 140,000 passenger cars. Over 300 The Switch permanent magnet shaft generators are already fully operational, serving a diverse fleet of container ships, gas carriers, bulk carriers, tankers and car carriers. These have accumulated more than 5 million operating hours with no vessel downtime due to failures. The Switch invests in ongoing research and development to further improve the efficiency and reliability of its solutions so that shipowners stay ahead of evolving environmental standards. "Field-proven technologies like permanent magnet shaft generators are vital stepping stones as the industry navigates toward a net-zero future," added Miika Reinikka, CEO of The Switch. "We are proud to help our end customers sail more sustainably and look forward to celebrating the next 500 deliveries." See more breaking stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

A new policy paper from NexSys, an all-island, multidisciplinary energy research programme, has highlighted that the current standards for ventilation in energy-efficient homes in Ireland do not always support healthy indoor air quality. 'As part of Ireland's commitment to a sustainable future, there is a big focus on building energy-efficient homes and promoting deep retrofitting of existing premises to increase their energy efficiency,' says lead author Dr Divyanshu Sood, a Senior Energy Systems Researcher at the UCD Energy Institute. 'Energy efficiency in buildings is important for sustainability, but we need to ensure that the air quality inside the house is both comfortable and healthy for the people in those buildings.' Poor indoor air quality is associated with an increased risk of respiratory symptoms and potential cardiovascular problems, as defined by the World Health Organisation. The NexSys policy paper draws from a study of nine energy-efficient homes in Ireland with natural ventilation. The study showed a buildup of carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds and particulate matter in living rooms, kitchens and bedrooms as a consequence of people living and cooking in the houses without an adequate supply of air. The paper makes policy recommendations to improve indoor air quality in energy-efficient homes, including allowing for mechanical ventilation and making occupants more aware of the need to open windows and doors and ventilate living areas. 'While current building standards meet energy-efficiency requirements, they do not explicitly require indoor air quality to be considered in design. They assume compliant ventilation will dilute pollutants, and do not account for how occupants' everyday activities can affect air quality,' says Dr Sood. 'The standards work on paper, but our study shows that once people move in and carry out everyday activities - such as cooking, burning scented candles, or using sprays - inadequate ventilation often has a negative impact on indoor air quality over time,' says Dr Ibrahim. The new policy paper summarises research conducted as part of the ALIVE project in the University of Galway and University College Dublin. The ALIVE project tracked air quality, energy usage and user behaviour in nine houses that had been newly built and complied with energy standards, achieving A2 or A3 BER ratings. Each home was occupied by adults and children. The new policy paper outlines several policy recommendations that are needed to address the potential impact of current energy-efficiency standards on indoor air quality. They include changing how indoor air quality is monitored to ensure safety, combining natural and mechanical ventilation to improve air switching and indoor air quality, and house occupants being made aware of the importance of opening windows to improve indoor air quality. "Opening a small window may noticeably affect indoor temperature, but it can greatly improve air quality. Our study found that when occupants recognise poor air quality and understand ventilation in airtight homes, they take timely actions that swiftly dilute built-up pollutants, as shown by several 'shining example' houses", says Dr Ibrahim. "Summer overheating is another significant challenge highlighted by our study, where factors such as inadequate ventilation, poor building orientation, and limited shading can increase the risk of indoor overheating", says Dr Sood. 'This is an opportunity to improve the health and living standards of people living and working in energy-efficient buildings,' says Dr Sood. In the meantime, Dr Sood suggests that people living in energy-efficient homes can improve indoor air quality by opening windows to bring fresh air in. The policy paper, Indoor Air Quality and Ventilation in Newly Built Homes, is available from NexSys and on PublicPolicy.ie

Students across Ireland saved the equivalent of 1.5 million AA batteries from landfill last school year - the weight of close to four school buses - with one small school collecting nearly 2,000 AA batteries per person. Cloonfour National School in Roscommon, with just 40 pupils, proved that even the smallest schools can make a massive impact as they rallied their families and community to collect used batteries for recycling and win their category in the national WEEE Ireland Schools Battery Recycling Competition. Other winning schools hailed from Galway, Carlow, Roscommon, Waterford and Donegal, with each awarded a €2,000 sports voucher for their efforts. This year's competition launches as the new EU Batteries Regulation come into full effect, bringing higher waste battery collection, recycling and recovery targets. WEEE Ireland is calling on schools, families, and communities nationwide to get involved by gathering used batteries for recycling and help Ireland meet these ambitious goals - while supporting environmental protection and the programme's charity partner LauraLynn Ireland's Children's Hospice. The competition is open to all primary and secondary schools in WEEE Ireland's battery recycling counties that collect at least 10 full 5kg battery boxes. "The new EU Batteries Regulation raises the bar for all of us, and schools across Ireland are proving they are ready to meet that challenge," said Elizabeth O'Reilly, Head of Environmental Compliance at WEEE Ireland. "The incredible efforts of students, teachers, families and local communities will help ensure we meet the minimum recovery targets for materials like cobalt, copper, lead, lithium, and nickel. This ensures these materials are recaptured for use again in manufacturing, as part of a more sustainable and circular battery economy. "Every year we see how collective action can achieve real results - and even the smallest schools, like Cloonfour National School, can make an outsized contribution." Expressing her gratitude, Kerry McLaverty, CEO of LauraLynn said: "The funds we have received from WEEE Ireland as a result of battery recycling programme over the last 14 years of this partnership have had such a positive impact on the children and families who avail of LauraLynn's specialised care and supports all across Ireland. "This year's donation brings the total fundraising to an incredible €610,000. LauraLynn would also like to say a huge thank you WEEE Ireland for the support across this campaign over the last number of years and to everyone who took the time to recycle their batteries. "It may seem like something small, but for the children and families who rely on LauraLynn, and for the environment, it is huge and very impactful." Schools can find more information and order free WEEE Ireland Blue Battery Boxes at www.weeeireland.ie. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Leading hiring platform IrishJobs has today published new data, revealing that nearly 8 in 10 employers in Ireland are using AI in the hiring process. Recruiters report that AI tools are helping to enhance productivity and enabling more efficient hiring. The IrishJobs Hiring Efficiency survey gathered insights from 475 recruiters and 824 job seekers in Ireland to identify changing attitudes and actions on hiring processes in a fast-evolving labour market. Findings from the survey reveal that 78% of recruiters in Ireland are using AI at some point in their recruitment process to enhance productivity. Adoption of AI among recruiters has increased by 50 percentage points over the past 12 months. 28% of employers reported using the technology in recruitment in August 2024, according to previous research by IrishJobs. Recruiters in Germany, the UK, and Austria also took part in the research, with results indicating that Irish recruiters are following a similar trajectory to international HR professionals regarding the adoption of AI. Over half of employers in Germany (60%) use AI in their hiring processes, while 77% of recruiters in the UK report using the technology to boost productivity and efficiency. In Austria, more than two-thirds of recruiters (66%) reported leveraging AI to support recruitment activities. Impact of AI 52% of recruiters in Ireland report that manual administrative tasks take up too much time in their everyday role and slow down the hiring process. The use of AI tools and technology is having a direct impact on reducing the time spent on these tasks and streamlining the hiring process. Writing and publishing job adverts (28%) is the top way in which recruiters are using AI to automate the recruitment process and enhance productivity. Reviewing job applications and CVs (23%) is the second most frequent use of AI among recruiters. This is followed by preparing and sending offer/contract documents (17%). 13% of employers are using AI technology to conduct interviews. Despite the rapid growth in AI adoption, a sizable minority of recruiters remain uncertain about the adoption and implementation of the technology in operations. 19% of recruiters reported that their current IT systems do not support integration of AI tools. Candidate dissatisfaction with recruitment processes The survey reveals several factors that are affecting hiring success, including the length of recruitment processes and the number of stakeholders involved. 23% of job candidates report that there are too many steps involved in the hiring process and drop out before it is complete. Overall, more than 1 in 4 job candidates who apply for a role do not complete the hiring process. Many employers are considering reducing the number of interviews in response to candidate dissatisfaction, with 36% of HR leaders admitting there are now too many interviews in the hiring process. A further 44% of employers call out the need for quicker internal processes, saying it takes too long to receive feedback from hiring managers. Commenting on the findings, Christopher Paye, Country Director of The Stepstone Group Ireland with responsibility for IrishJobs, said: "The Irish economy is set to face a new period of elevated economic uncertainty over the coming months, prompted by the introduction of international trade tariffs. However, despite this heightened volatility, the outlook for the labour market remains positive, with Davy recently forecasting that the workforce will grow by 2-3 per cent in 2025, while recent data from the CSO reported that the number of people employed in the state has risen above 2.8 million for the first time. This resilience will mean that many employers in Ireland continue to navigate a highly competitive market for talent and face skills shortages across various sectors. The IrishJobs Hiring Efficiency survey provides a timely insight into the opportunities and challenges facing recruiters in this evolving environment. It's clear...

Budget 2026 must include tax measures to support green energy innovators, according to Hydrogen Ireland. With less than four weeks to go until October 7th, the organisation has identified supportive fiscal frameworks as crucial elements of the drive to promote emerging opportunities. CEO of Hydrogen Ireland, Paul McCormack, says the right framework of technologies and personnel with the right skillsets must be in place - and that requires support for funding now: "With the right approach, hydrogen projects could be having an impact on Ireland's energy landscape in three to five years. To achieve that, our hydrogen economy needs to be underpinned by a progressive tax strategy - one that rewards innovation, de-risks investment, and aligns fiscal tools with our climate ambition. We engage with dozens of investors and international organisations that all recognise Ireland's potential as the epicentre of the hydrogen revolution. What we need is the right support framework to convince them to invest here. We need to provide tax reliefs that will help convince people that Ireland is ready to lead the way towards a just transition, with hydrogen as a central element on that journey". Paul McCormack's comments follow the Taoiseach's comments in a letter to the EC President Ursula von der Leyen, expressing concerns about the impact of rising energy costs on semiconductor chipmakers, and calling for 'interim measures' to be taken to address the situation. CEO of Hydrogen Ireland Paul McCormack welcomed Taoiseach Micheál Martin's decision to raise the issue directly with Ms von der Leyen and sees the move as 'a strategic inflection point': "If Europe wants to lead in high tech, semiconductors, big data and AI, it must also lead in clean, affordable energy. That means coupling hydrogen innovation, grid reform, and industrial resilience into one cohesive vision. "Thanks to progress made to date, Ireland is in a prime position to harness the full potential of green hydrogen. We're calling on the government to create the kind of fiscal environment that will capitalise on the work done so far and allow innovators the space to accelerate progress towards a cleaner energy future for ourselves and our European neighbours". The global hydrogen dialogue will take centre stage at the World Hydrogen Technologies Convention in Dublin from October 21 - 23. Hosted by Hydrogen Ireland, WHTC is one of the best-known conventions in the fields of hydrogen energy and fuel cell technology. Speakers will include Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Timmy Dooley TD, Tony O'Reilly, Founder and CEO of dCarbonX and President of the International Association for Hydrogen Energy, Dr Ayfer Verizoglu. Sponsors include ESB, Gas Networks Ireland and the Japan Atomic Energy Agency.

A leading pensions expert is warning that the Government's auto-enrolment campaign for pensions - due to begin on January 1st - does not equip businesses with the practical information employers need to choose between auto-enrolment and existing pension options available. Feargal McKenna, co-founder of Pensions Awareness Week, which takes place from September 29th to October 3rd, and Head of Corporate at Moneycube.ie, was speaking to over 100 businesses at a Breakfast Briefing for Wicklow's business community this morning, which was also addressed by Tánaiste Simon Harris. The free event, at The GRID in Greystones, was organised by Wicklow's business networking group, East Wicklow Business Network (WicklowBusiness.ie) and the Local Enterprise Office Wicklow. Feargal McKenna unveiled a new Auto-Enrolment Calculator developed by Moneycube.ie specifically for employers and hosted on the Pensions Awareness Week website - www.pensionsawarenessweek.ie. The calculator - which is free to use - is designed to give Irish employers instant clarity about the true cost of auto-enrolment on their payroll and the impact on employees' take-home pay. It also allows employers to compare these costs with alternative pension arrangements, so they can make informed decisions before the scheme begins. Unlike most existing auto-enrolment calculators, which focus only on employees, Moneycube.ie's tool is built for employers, who ultimately decide whether to default into auto-enrolment or take action to establish an alternative scheme. The calculator is easy to use, with just six steps providing business owners, HR managers or finance teams with the information they need to decide whether to prepare their organisations for auto-enrolment or explore alternative options. Employers enter a few simple details about their workforce - such as employee numbers, salary levels, and contribution rates. The calculator instantly shows the total payroll cost under auto-enrolment, how much employees' net pay will fall, and the potential advantages of alternative options. Feargal McKenna, Head of Corporate at Moneycube.ie, says: "If auto-enrolment starts on January 1st, about 800,000 employees will see a reduction in net take-home pay, but employers still have time to choose a structure that can avoid that and possibly deliver better outcomes. "Our employers' calculator gives business owners, HR and finance teams instant, side-by-side numbers: the payroll cost under auto-enrolment over a 10-year period and how that compares with a well-designed occupational pension. Defaulting into auto-enrolment can disadvantage higher-rate taxpayers and limit retirement choices. The Government has released information about their Auto-Enrolment scheme, but it has fallen short in providing a straightforward tool to help people understand the options. Moneycube.ie's calculator fills that gap while supporting the goal of getting Ireland saving for retirement - something that is core to the reason we set up Pensions Awareness Week. "We built this calculator because employers need an instant picture from two, often opposing, perspectives: the finance team, focused on controlling costs, and HR, focused on benefits, recruitment and retention. Government may have cried wolf in the past, but businesses no longer have the luxury of waiting. If pension contributions aren't flowing through payroll by December, the gift under the tree this year - whether you asked for it or not - will be auto-enrolment… and it doesn't come with batteries." More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help prom...

Ireland's fascination with the cosmos takes centre stage from 4-10 October 2025 as Space Week Ireland returns with a new theme, "Living in Space." Coordinated by MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory (BCO), the week invites students, families, community groups, artists, engineers and the wider space community to explore how life on Earth can inform life beyond it - from caves and controlled habitats to stars, galaxies, black holes and supernovas. Many events are free, with others ticketed locally. The programme blasts off with a Space Week Roadtrip, bringing astronauts and science communicators directly into communities across the country to spark imagination and curiosity. Former NASA astronaut Dan Tani will be joined on the road by Dr. Niall Smith, Head of Research, MTU and Head of Blackrock Castle Observatory, for a series of public and school engagements across Cork, Kerry and Limerick from Saturday 4 to Tuesday 7 October. Space Week Ireland celebrations get underway on Saturday 4 October (10:00-13:00) with a family-friendly Space Week Festival at the Cork School of Music.. Audiences will hear first-hand about life in space from Dan Tani, delve into the hazards of space living with Dr. Lisa McNamee, and explore the impact of high-energy particles (like the sun) on human health with Dr Josh Reynolds. Interactive displays and hands-on workshops will bring science to life for children and families. On Monday 6 October, the Road Trip visits Tralee Library, Co. Kerry for a special primary school session titled 'Living in Space, with NASA astronaut Dan Tani and astronomer Dr. Niall Smith' (10am-1.30pm) Join NASA Astronaut Dan Tani as he shares his experiences from living onboard the international Space Station (ISS) and Dr. Niall Smith, an astronomer and space scientist about the future prospects of living in space. That evening at 7pm the team arrives at the University of Limerick for a public event hosted with the UL Rocketry Society. The Limerick programme continues on Tuesday 7 October at Mary Immaculate College, with primary school sessions followed by a general public talk on the topic of living in space (1.10-1.55pm). Further Space Week events - including talks, workshops and stargazing nights - will run nationwide. Highlights include an ESERO Ireland Space Careers Roadshow at MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory in Cork, a NASA Space Apps event in Athlone, Space Week activities at Galway Atlantaquaria, and "The Stars and the Universe Beyond" evening at Maynooth University. Explore the full programme at spaceweek.ie/events. Each event opens a doorway to larger questions: how extreme conditions shape resilience, how we might design to survive, and how Ireland's next generation can chart unlimited pathways - through the joy of space-related hobbies or through research and careers in STEM and the space industry. "Living and working in space is one of the most extraordinary experiences a human being can have," said Dan Tani, former NASA astronaut. "You see Earth from orbit and realise how fragile and beautiful it really is. Being involved with the Space Week Ireland Road Trip gives me the chance to share that perspective - not just the adventure of floating in zero gravity, but the ingenuity, teamwork, and resilience it takes to thrive in such an extreme environment. I hope it inspires students here in Ireland to see themselves as part of humanity's journey to the stars." Dr. Niall Smith commented; "The challenge of living in space is moving from short-term habitability of a small number of people in space stations to longer term colonisation of villages of people on the Moon and ultimately Mars and perhaps beyond. There are enormous challenges in meeting this vision to become a multi-planet species, but equally there are enormous opportunities. Rarely has human living in space been more exciting." In addition to in-person events, the public can follow the Space Week Ireland Road Trip virtually via the BCO YouTube channel. Viewers ...

Almost €9.4 million was laundered through money mule accounts in the 12 months to H1 2025, according to new figures released today by FraudSMART, the fraud awareness initiative led by Banking & Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI). While the amounts moved through these accounts vary, they typically range between €5,000 and €10,000 per case. The publication of today's figures come as FraudSMART, with support from AMLÉ (formerly the Union of Students Ireland or USI), launches the 'Don't be a mule' campaign. A money mule is someone who receives stolen money or proceeds of crime into their bank account and transfers it into another account, often in return for money or an expensive gift. While people of any age are susceptible to becoming a money mule, FraudSMART members have found that the majority of money mule bank accounts belong to those aged between 18 and 24 years of age, with some cases involving children as young as 14. New research conducted by FraudSMART reveals that: Almost a third (30%) of 18-24-year-olds reported that they, or someone they know, have been approached to use their bank account to transfer money. One in four (27%) 18-24-year-olds admitted they would be likely to consider using their bank account to transfer money on behalf of someone else, in exchange for keeping some of the money. 47% of 18-24-year-olds said they had never heard of the term money mule and 52% said they did not understand what it means. Awareness of the consequences of money muling is lower among 18-24-year-olds compared to older age groups. 26% are unaware that it could help fund other criminal activity, 31% are unaware that they would be committing a money laundering offence, 35% do not understand they could face jail time, and 42% are unaware it could affect their ability to obtain international travel or work visas. 60% of parents of teenagers surveyed said they have not discussed the risks of money muling with their children. Young people are being recruited through social media adverts promising 'easy' money Niamh Davenport, Head of Financial Crime, BPFI said: "Criminals are increasingly using social media to target teenagers and young adults, luring them with cash or gifts to act as money mules. Alarmingly, our research shows that nearly one in three (30%) people aged 18-24 have either been approached themselves or know someone who has been asked to move money through their bank account. Even more concerning, more than one in four (27%) of this age group admit they would be willing to transfer money on behalf of someone else in exchange for keeping a share of the money. This willingness highlights just how critical it is that we raise awareness of the risk - both in terms of serious criminal consequences and the fact that money is often linked to wider financial crime networks that fuel drugs, human trafficking, and other serious offences. An Garda Síochána warns about serious consequences of money muling Michael Cryan, Detective Superintendent at the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau stated: "It's vital that young people realise this is far from a 'victimless' crime and the consequences of taking part are severe. This is money laundering and the funds moved by money mules are linked to criminal activity, often stolen from innocent people through scams such as text message and email scams. Even more alarming, these funds frequently go on to bankroll other serious crimes including terrorism, drug trafficking, human trafficking and pay the bribes that corrupt people the world over. Money mules are recruited by Transnational Criminal Organisations and money mules enhance their capability to commit serious crimes. The money mule is a vital cog in the operations of these Transnational Criminal Organisations. That's why money muling carries such serious penalties, including the risk of a criminal record and prison sentence." FraudSMART, with support from AMLÉ (formerly the Union of Students Ireland) and in partnership with Sole Mat...

A global engineering design consultancy with expertise in data centres and complex infrastructure projects is set to create 60 new high-tech engineering jobs in Dublin. Black & White Engineering recently completed the acquisition of Homan O'Brien, one of Ireland's longest-established consulting engineering firms. The deal marks Black & White's first European acquisition and a significant investment in the Irish market. Homan O'Brien traces its roots back more than 65 years through the merger of Robert Jacob and Partners (founded in 1955) and Seamus Homan Associates (founded in 1978). It has built a strong reputation across healthcare, education, laboratories, commercial, residential and industrial sectors, in addition to its expertise in data centres. Simon O'Brien, Country Director, Ireland at Black & White Engineering, said: "We're currently 32 people in Dublin and over the next three years we plan to grow the team to around 90. That's 60 new high-tech engineering jobs and a real investment in Irish talent and skills. For our clients, it means continuity and stability with the same level of service we've always provided, while giving us the scale and support of a global network." The expansion forms a key part of Black & White's European growth strategy, supported by its investment partners Waterland. Choosing Dublin for the company's first European acquisition reflects both the city's importance as a base for multinational clients and the depth of engineering expertise available in Ireland. With Waterland's backing, Black & White is accelerating its international growth and building the scale needed to support clients across increasingly complex global projects. Mick Cairns, CEO and Founder of Black & White Engineering, said: "Dublin is a strategic hub for many of our global clients and having a strong presence here means we can be closer to them while creating significant new opportunities for engineers in Ireland. This is an exciting step in our growth journey, and we're delighted to invest in the future of the Irish engineering sector." Black & White Engineering now operates across more than 18 cities worldwide with a team of over 1,000 people. The company has seen rapid growth in recent years, achieving a 500% increase in size since 2020 and is recognised across industry for its technical excellence, data centre expertise and sustainable design solutions. Steven Horn, Managing Director, Europe at Black & White Engineering, added: "Creating 60 new high-tech engineering roles in Dublin is a major step in building our European capability. These jobs represent real opportunities for talented engineers in Ireland to work on projects that have both a local and international impact. Expanding the team in Dublin also strengthens our ability to support clients across Europe with the depth of expertise and resources they need." More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

The broadband market in Ireland is now flooded with providers all offering a myriad of deals. We know it's hard to find the perfect deal that suits your needs, but we're here to help. We've teamed up with Switcher.ie, the free and impartial price comparison and switching service, to find the best broadband deals available every month. Check back regularly to stay informed of the latest deals and offers, and visit the Switcher.ie website to order one of these great packages. Best Broadband Deals Looking for a good deal on broadband? Check out Virgin Media's 500Mb Broadband plan. For just €35 per month for the first year, you'll get unlimited broadband with speeds of up to 500Mb. Plus, sign up before September 30th and get €100 off your Virgin Media broadband bill. With eir's Unlimited Broadband and Talk plan, priced at €29.99 per month for 12 months, you'll get unlimited broadband with speeds of up to 100Mb with unlimited off-peak local & national calls. eir also offer this plan with speeds of up to 500Mb with their Fibre Broadband and Talk plan. Also priced at €29.99 per month for 12 months. For just €30 per month for the first year, Pure Telecom's Purely Broadband offers unlimited broadband with speeds of up to 100Mb, ideal for surfing, gaming or streaming. Also, you can enjoy great value over the long term with Pure Telecom with a low out-of-contract monthly cost and no contractual annual price increase. Looking for something faster? Sign up to Sky's Ultrafast Max and get unlimited broadband with speeds of up to 1Gb for €35 per month for the first year. Interested in bundling broadband and TV? Virgin Media 500Mb Broadband with Basic TV plan includes unlimited broadband with speeds of up to 500Mb, and a mix of over 30 TV channels, all for €45 per month for 12 months. Plus, sign up before September 30th and get €100 off your Virgin Media broadband bill. If you're after a greater variety of TV channels, take a look at Virgin Media's 500Mb Broadband with Loaded TV plan. For €50 per month for 12 months, you'll get unlimited broadband with speeds of up to 500Mb, and over 100 TV channels. Sign up exclusively via Switcher.ie before September 30th, and get €100 off your Virgin Media broadband bill. (If you've come across this article after some of these deals may have expired, check out our main Broadband Deals category page to find the latest offers) More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Culture Night now in its twentieth year, is an annual public event taking place all over Ireland that celebrates the richness and diversity of culture in Ireland today. Esri Ireland, the market leader in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), has announced that The Arts Council has used Esri's technology to create a digital map of events happening around Ireland for Culture Night 2025. The interactive, easy-to-use map will chart your cultural course and help you to navigate over 1,800 free events taking place across the island of Ireland. From music, theatre, and comedy to poetry readings, walking tours, and puppet workshops, there is something for all ages and interests on the 2025 programme. The Culture Night digital map allows you to search the 1700 events taking place tonight by county, location, venue, and event name. It also allows you to search by start time, age suitability, and accessibility. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.