Podcasts about irish government

Applications are now open for the September 2026 cohort of the Digital4Business Joint Professional Master's Degree in Advanced Digital Technologies for Business. For this intake, successful applicants will pay no tuition or registration fees, thanks to co-funding from the European Union and the Digital4Business consortium. The programme gives learners the opportunity to complete a fully online, internationally accredited Master's designed around the digital skills businesses need most, including artificial intelligence, data science, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. Digital4Business has a strong Irish connection. National College of Ireland is one of the four higher education institutions delivering the programme, alongside Linköping University in Sweden, NOVA IMS in Portugal, and the University of Bologna in Italy. NCI is also overseeing the validation and accreditation of programmes, while Professor Horacio González-Vélez of NCI is the overall Digital4Business coordinator. Irish organisations Skillnet Ireland and Digital Technology Skills are also members of the consortium. Apply now for Digital4Business online master's The project was originally launched at National College of Ireland, with Irish Government representatives welcoming the initiative and its role in developing advanced digital skills for Europe's workforce. At the launch, then Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris, addressed the event by video message, welcoming the collaboration of higher education institutions, research centres, training providers and industry partners. "We are always stronger together, especially when we harness pan-European cooperation," he said. Dara Calleary, then Minister of State for Trade Promotion and Digital Transformation, also attended the launch at NCI and highlighted the importance of digital technologies for Ireland's economic progress and talent development. Study built around real life Digital4Business has been designed for recent graduates, managers, and ambitious professionals who want to build advanced digital skills without stepping away from work. While the programme follows a full-time structure, classes take place in the evening, making it a realistic option for people balancing full-time jobs, family life, and other commitments. Learners complete a 60 ECTS Master's over two semesters in one academic year, fully online. Career support built into the programme Alongside academic delivery, Digital4Business places a strong focus on community, career progression, and practical support. Students have access to employability webinars, one-to-one coaching, mentoring, peer exchange, and career-focused sessions covering CV development, networking, interview performance, communication, and leading through digital change. Wider support also includes industry engagement, work-based learning, and networking opportunities, helping students feel connected to both peers and the professional world. Student experience Current student Grace Rubinger said: "Balancing the programme with work and family life takes structure and consistency. I usually watch lectures twice a week and set aside additional time for readings and assignments. That steady rhythm helps me stay engaged without becoming overwhelmed." Current student Luis Pereira said: "Between the introductions and discussions, you quickly realise everyone comes from different backgrounds but is dealing with the same challenge of balancing work, life, and study. That shared experience makes it feel more like a group than studying alone." Supporting strategic digital careers The combination of academic learning, practical application, and career support is central to Digital4Business. The programme was developed to help learners build technical knowledge, confidence, and the strategic perspective needed to apply digital technologies in real business contexts. For graduates, professionals, and managers lo...

Irish government and the Fuel DebacleThe blockade of fuel depots, motorways, towns and Dublin City centre was entirely avoidable if the FFFG government had taken the growing crisis around the cost of living and increasing fuel and energy bills seriously months ago. Instead Micheál Martin and Co. stuck their heads in the sand and ignored the mounting anger.Another Israeli Offensive likely in GazaAs I write this the talks between Iran and the USA, over the illegal Israeli/US war against Iran, appear to have foundered. It is likely that the energy and economic crisis that has resulted will continue.Israel's leader Benjamin Netanyahu has been lobbying the USA for decades to attack Iran. Other Presidents refused. President Trump agreed. The bombing of Iran and Lebanon result from Netanyahu's war aim of expanding Israel's borders.Palestinian Prisoners Day 17 April:This Friday is Palestinian Prisoners' Day. It is a day set aside internationally and dedicated to the freedom of Palestinian political prisoners and in support for their rights.A just published report - titled “Another genocide behind walls” - by Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor https://euromedmonitor.org/en documents the appalling widespread patterns of brutality and sexual violence, including rape, used by Israel against detainees from the Gaza Strip.A Nation For AllCaoilfhionn Ní Dhonnabháinnn's book A NATION FOR ALL is a must read primer for anyone interested in the struggle for the re-conquest of Ireland by the people of this island. I whole heartedly recommend it.  Especially to activists or those brave souls who are on the journey into activism and who are trying to figure out how, in this turbulent world, the struggle for equality, solidarity, democracy and sovereignty in Ireland is to be taken forward. As always it is important to get the basics right. A Nation For All does that.  

This week we're talking about how Malta is keeping the cost of fuel low and whether the Irish Government could follow suit

Shannonwatch claims there's a direct threat posed to Shannon Airport by the US military's continued use of the base. The activist group is calling on the Irish Government to follow in the footsteps of their Spanish, French and Italian counterparts by restricting the US's access to airspace and bases. According to the group, two flights associated with the United States Armed Forces landed at Shannon on Tuesday alone, with a further five passing through Irish airspace on the same day. Shannonwatch founder Edward Horgan continuing the relationship puts Shannon at risk of attack from enemies of the Trump administration.

In CI News this week: A Finnish MP is convicted of “hate speech” for publishing a church booklet on marriage, the Olympics will ban men who identify as female from competing against women, and politicians call on the Irish Government to urgently tackle coerced abortions. You can download the video via this link. Featured stories Finnish Christian MP convicted of ‘crimes against humanity' for church booklet on marriage Olympics bans biological men from competing in women's categories Lawmakers raise alarm over increase of coerced abortion cases in Ireland Christian photographer awarded $800k after refusing to promote same-sex weddings

Waterford's Walton Institute at South East Technological University (SETU) and IrelandQCI project consortium partners have worked with Q*Bird, the Dutch leader in quantum secure communication, to successfully deploy Ireland's first multi-node, entanglement-based Measurement-Device-Independent Quantum Key Distribution (MDI-QKD) network. The deployment forms part of the IrelandQCI project, the country's national quantum communications initiative and a key contributor to EuroQCI, the EU-wide federated quantum communications infrastructure. Operating over Ireland's existing fibre infrastructure, the telecom-grade network transitions quantum security from research environments into live national infrastructure. It safeguards research, education and critical systems while enabling interoperable quantum connectivity across Ireland and Europe. Importantly, it has been designed from the start with an expandable architecture in mind, so that any additional Q*Bird QKD Node can connect to the network with a single fibre link and then gain full quantum connectivity around the network. A major milestone for Ireland's national quantum infrastructure ''This multi-node deployment represents a major milestone for Ireland's national quantum infrastructure," said Dr Deirdre Kilbane, Director of Research at Walton Institute at SETU and Coordinator of the €10 M IrelandQCI project, which is co-funded by the European Commission and the Irish Government's Department of Communications, Culture and Sport. "By integrating Q*Bird's operational MDI-QKD Falqon® Series across research institutions, data centres and national networks, we are enabling secure, interoperable quantum communication while also creating a platform for other research institutions to join. It strengthens Ireland's sovereignty over critical communications and contributes directly to EuroQCI and Europe's federated quantum network vision." The hub-and-spoke architectural network comprises of four End Nodes, one Center Hub and one Quantum Optical Switch for a scalable metropolitan deployment and uses ESB Telecoms dark fibre for the quantum communication channel. The End Nodes are located in two Dublin data centres, Dublin City University and Trinity College Dublin, while the Center Hub is hosted at Asiera (formerly HEAnet), Ireland's National Education and Research Network. The collaborative expertise of Walton Institute at SETU, Asiera and Q*Bird were responsible for the successful deployment of the highly secure connection between the strategic Dublin city locations. The Q*Bird Quantum-Optimized Optical Switch enables dynamic, secure routing of qubits around the network, ensuring full multi-node connectivity of QKD keys, without relying on trusted intermediaries. Industry-grade security for research, education and critical infrastructure At the core of the network is Q*Bird's Falqon Series, enabling entanglement-based quantum key distribution over operational fibre networks. Detector-side exploits have been identified by security authorities, including Germany's Federal Office for Information Security (BSI), as the most critical attack vector in earlier QKD implementations. Q*Bird's devices completely remove the requirement to trust any measurement devices, thus establishing an architecture with a security model resilient against both present day cyber threats and future quantum-enabled attacks. This ensures long-term cryptographic protection for sensitive research data, governmental communications and critical infrastructure systems, while addressing harvest-now-decrypt-later (HNDL) risk scenarios. Interoperability by design, resilience by architecture The network's hub-and-spoke architecture of Q*Bird devices, along with the Quantum Optical Switch, enables precise synchronisation, dynamic routing and multi-node quantum key distribution. Designed for interoperability and compatibility with existing fibre infrastructure, it provides an open foundation for future integration with eme...

The first question on everyones lips when we talk about a United Ireland is money. How much will it cost us and how will we pay for it? To give us an overview of what the economics of unity might look like we sit down with Stephen Kinsella Professor of Economics at the University of Limerick and member of the Irish Government's AI Advisory Council and an Economic Advisor to the Tánaiste, Simon Harris. In October 2025 BBC NI published a podcast series, Borderland, that tackled the question of Irish unity. While the series explored both sides of the argument on the question of unity, there was one clear agreement. It's time for the south to seriously engage with the Northern question if there is to be any real debate on the possibility of a united Ireland. Notre Dame University are also running a major research project investigating the constitutional future of Ireland called ARINS (Analysing and Researching Ireland North and South) that probs these questions.   This limited series in an answer to this work and looks to further the conversation amongst ordinary young people in the south. Shockingly, only 22% of southerners have made repeat trips north of the border so what do we really know about life in the North? What would a United Ireland look like? Is it something we really want? What does a modern Ireland for all look like? What are the concessions we would have to make and can we make them? This series looks to engage with the question of the North beyond the romantic notions ask practical questions of the south. How do we go about building a united Ireland for all? HOW TO GAEL: LE GEALAÍ Corcaigh: ⁠⁠⁠https://corkpodcastfestival.ie/how-to-gael/⁠⁠⁠ Baile Átha Cliath: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.ticketmaster.ie/how-to-gael-dublin-05-04-2026/event/1800638AD058E413⁠⁠⁠ Bonus content ar fáil ar Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/HowToGael⁠⁠⁠ Bí i dteagmháil linn! Ríomhphost: ⁠⁠⁠howtogael@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠ Suíomh: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.howtogael.com/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/howtogael/⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@howtogael⁠ ⁠Cwb.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Clare Fianna Fáil TD and Minister of State, Timmy Dooley, will spend this St. Patrick's Day representing the Irish Government in Canada. As part of the Government's global St. Patrick's Day programme, which sees Ministers in more than 50 countries promoting Ireland's economy, trade links and diaspora connections, the Tulla-based Minister is attending a series of official events across Western Canada. Alan Morrissey spoke with Minister Dooley earlier, about his busy few days of engagements celebrating Irish culture while also strengthening economic and political ties between Ireland and Canada, as well as the Taoiseach's trip to the White House, and other matters of importance... For more on this also, Alan was joined live by the Shannon Sinn Féin TD, Donna McGettigan... Photo (c) Alleksana Pixels Images via Canva

An Irish woman whose boss repeatedly shouted abuse at her in a “strong Irish accent” has been awarded more than £23,000 after an employment tribunal found she had been racially harassed.The Irish Government estimates that around 70 million people of Irish heritage live outside Ireland. From quips in movies and tv shows, to profiling at work, this seems to be happening everywhere.Have you ever had an experience about negative Irish stereotypes, particularly abroad?Andrea is joined by Irish people living abroad to discuss.

The Irish Government is advising the 22,000 or more Irish citizens in the Gulf region to shelter in place.Matt talks to Catriona Lougran, communications director with CTG in Dubai and John Hayes, an Irish journalist and presenter on Al Arabiya English Channel in Dubai, about the air strikes launched over the region at the weekend, and what they are expecting over the coming days.To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.

Jon Burrows, Ulster Unionist Party leader, calls for an apology from the Irish government for conduct during the Troubles.

Several Irish citizens have sought official help after being arrested and detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials in the US, according to the Irish Government. It comes following news that 42 year old Seamus Culleton, originally from Kilkenny but living in Boston for over 20 years, has been held by ICE for more than five months in what he's described as appalling conditions. Speaking to Anton to discuss further was John Foley an immigration attorney.

Several Irish citizens have sought official help after being arrested and detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials in the US, according to the Irish Government. It comes following news that 42 year old Seamus Culleton, originally from Kilkenny but living in Boston for over 20 years, has been held by ICE for more than five months in what he's described as appalling conditions. Speaking to Anton to discuss further was John Foley an immigration attorney.

An organisation set up to monitor the US military's use of Shannon Airport says it's "appalled" by reports of flights carrying Palestinian natives being deported from the US passing through the Clare base.A joint investigation by The Guardian newspaper and +972 Magazine has found that two flights carrying eight Palestinian men detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement stopped at Shannon en route to Tel Aviv from Arizona .According to the reports, a private plane owned by an Israeli-American property tycoon was used for the flights where the men had their "wrists and ankles shackled".Shannonwatch founder Edward Horgan has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons the Irish Government must take steps to ensure it doesn't happen again.

A Kilrush-headquartered conservation group has expressed cautious optimism that the government will abide by an EU directive to provide a greater amount of protected marine habitats. It comes as Fair Seas, of which the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group is a member, has appeared before the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Fisheries and Maritime Affairs to discuss delayed maritime protection laws. The Irish Government has committed to protecting 30% of its seas by 2030 but at present, less than 10% are currently designated as protected. Marine Policy and Advocacy Officer with the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, Eva Lambert, says progression is urgently needed to prevent further sharp declines in marine life populations.

NASA is set to bring home four astronauts which are expected to return to Earth within days after an astronaut suffered a health issue, the first such medical evacuation from the station in NASA's history.For more on this, Ciara is joined by Leo Enright, Space Commentator and former Chairman of the Irish Government's Science Awareness Program.

 International Law in TattersShould we be surprised by the decision of President Trump to kidnap President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores? Should we be shocked by his claim that the US will now administer Venezuela or that US Oil companies will manage Venezuela's huge oil reserves? And what of his threats against Cuba, Colombia, Mexico, Greenland, Nigeria and others?The historical reality is that we have seen all of this before. The most brazen example this century was the invasion of Iraq in 2003, under the pretext of the non-existent weapons of mass destruction. The truth then was that US and British interests were primarily concerned with the control of Iraq's oil. The result was a million Iraqi dead and a region torn apart by the subsequent political instability. International law was flagrantly broken. Torture and a brutal occupation followed. The Fellow in the Big PictureOver the Christmas break I watched more television than I do at any other time. Regular readers will know that I'm more of a radio man. RTE Radio, Raidió na Gaeltachta, Raidió Fáilte, Radio Ulster. I listen to these every day. But I like westerns. And there is always a ton of westerns to be seen on television over the Christmas period. Some are old ones featuring Audie Murphy, Gene Audrey, Alan Ladd, John Wayne, Maureen O Hara and the likes.  TG4 usually has a good selection of these.They also show a lot of movies featuring Clint Eastwood. I like his films.  And not just the westerns. Although he first came to our attention in Ballymurphy with Rawhide. Unforgiven was the film of choice this Nollaig with Gene Hackman and Morgan Freeman, all in starring roles. And it was followed by Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.  Irish government should be ashamed2026 began for the people of the Gaza Strip and the Palestinian Occupied Territories with more Israeli attacks by land and sea and air; winter storms that have added to the enormous hardship of people trying to survive in flimsy tents; and the denial of appropriate humanitarian aid.2025 also ended with Israel having killed nearly half of all those journalists killed last year. Reporters Without Borders recorded that 29 reporters were killed by Israeli forces making Israel “the worst enemy of journalists.” 

Ibec, the group representing Irish business, has called on the Irish Government to increase investment in defence and security. According to Ibec, ongoing global conflicts require increased efforts to ensure Ireland can protect itself and the businesses that operate here, adding that robust security is the bedrock for business, ensuring security of supply, the ability to transact, and confidence in the rule of law. This call coincides with the publication of Ibec's latest priorities paper for Ireland's upcoming EU Presidency, which focuses on security and defence as essential elements for future-proofing European resilience in the context of global instability. Danny McCoy, Ibec CEO, said: "The world has changed fundamentally in the last five years. Europeans realize that our defence and security infrastructure is very vulnerable to external attack. Defence is not just about militarisation. However, we cannot simply avoid militarisation when the rest of our European Union colleagues- the Union, which is the domain for our economic success and prosperity- are increasing their capabilities. We must be part of a secure Europe." "This does not involve abandoning our neutrality, and we need to ensure, in having realistic conversations about our defence capabilities, that we do not conflate the two. However, neutrality does not mean being defenceless. Being part of the defence of Europe is to make our contribution, and this can be in non-lethal aspects like radar systems and cybersecurity." "Within Ireland, we need to ensure we have the people and capabilities to defend us in our seas and in our air. While the Government has committed to achieving Level 2 of the Commission on Defence Forces' ambition by 2028, a truly comprehensive national defence capability would necessitate aiming for the Level 3 capability within that timeframe rather than beyond it, which requires an investment of approximately twice the current policy commitment. Businesses rely on our ability to protect our undersea cables, our grid connection, energy, and defend against cyber threats, among others. We saw with the visit of President Zelenskyy last week and with Ireland's EU Presidency fast approaching, that our vulnerabilities are going to become more scrutinised internationally. In the future world of investment, the realities of business will require a country to be able to prove that it can defend and secure its assets. So this is of paramount national importance, not just in protecting ourselves but also ensuring future prosperity." 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.

Fixify, a leading provider in AI-driven IT support automation, has selected Cork City as the home of its new EU Centre of Excellence, creating 50 skilled jobs in the region over the next 18 months. The new facility will serve as a regional base for Fixify's development, support, and customer success for worldwide operations. This project is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland. Attending the event, Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD said: "This announcement from Fixify to select Cork as the home of its new EU Centre of Excellence demonstrates a deep commitment to the region and creates 50 high-tech jobs in an exciting and growing sector. I have no doubt that these highly skilled jobs in IT, software engineering and data analysis will be a further boost to the workforce in the region. I want to acknowledge the role of IDA Ireland in supporting this project and I look forward to seeing the continued growth of Fixify in Cork over the coming years." Minister for Enterprise Tourism & Employment Peter Burke TD said: "Fixify's decision to establish its EU Centre of Excellence in Cork is very welcome news and is a strong endorsement of Ireland's position as a global leader in technology and innovation. This investment will bring 50 high-quality jobs to the region and further strengthen our thriving digital ecosystem. Cork's deep talent pool, supported by world-class institutions like UCC and MTU, and its proven track record in attracting and sustaining high-value FDI, make it ideally placed to support Fixify's growth. I wish the Fixify team in Cork the very best for the future." Fixify is now hiring in roles including IT Helpdesk Analysts, Software Engineers, Data Engineers, and Data Scientists. To explore career opportunities with Fixify, please visit Fixify careers. "We chose Cork for Fixify's European base - a city that brings together deep technical expertise, quality of life and community spirit - the conditions that make great work last," said Matt Peters, CEO Fixify. "Establishing our base here enables Fixify to tap into Ireland's exceptional talent and contribute to its thriving tech ecosystem as we scale automation and support that remains genuinely human worldwide." "Our investment in Cork is a strong vote of confidence in Ireland's technology talent and infrastructure," added Caroline Coughlan, Director, Employee Experience & People Operations at Fixify "Over the next 18 months, we will be scaling our presence here in parallel with delivering outstanding value to our customers across EMEA." IDA Ireland CEO Michael Lohan said: "I am very pleased that Fixify has chosen Cork as home to its EU Centre of Excellence as it recognises the quality and depth of the South West region's talent pool, Ireland's vibrant culture, and our pro-business environment. I wish to congratulate Fixify on this expansion and look forward to supporting them as they enhance Ireland's reputation as home to a thriving technology sector" 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 episode offers an unflinching and deeply insightful exploration of one of Ireland's darkest chapters—its 20th-century system of “Mother and Baby Homes” and related institutions, and the wider regime of enforced family separation. Joining us are Dr. Maeve O'Rourke and Dr. Mary Harney of the CLANN Project, a renowned survivor-led initiative that continues in its tenacity to challenge the Irish Government's ongoing failure to uphold the human rights of those affected. Listeners will hear how, despite overwhelming evidence of gross human rights violations, the Irish State continues to deny survivors' rights to truth, justice, access to information, and meaningful reparation. A decade after the establishment of the Mother and Baby Homes Commission of Investigation (MBHCOI) in 2015—and years after the State's official apology in 2021—the government's response remains gravely inadequate and in clear violation of international human rights law. The CLANN Project has played a central role in documenting evidence of gross human rights violations and exposing the deeply flawed processes that led to the Commission's wrongful conclusions that effectively contradicted its own evidence and the reports that came from survivor testimony. We also discuss the Government's Mother and Baby Institution Payment Scheme (MBIPS), a redress payment scheme that finally opened in 2024, and yet excludes tens of thousands of survivors through arbitrary and unjust eligibility rules. The CLANN campaign continues to advocate for the scheme to be expanded in line with human rights law. (More information at llmclann.com.) Beyond redress, our conversation explores CLANN's broader work—supported by the Human Rights Law Clinic at the Irish Centre for Human Rights, University of Galway—including campaigns for legislative reform, access to identity and birth information, record-keeping in compliance with EU law, memorialisation, and public education ensuring that these injustices are never forgotten. We consider how movement lawyering, survivor-led advocacy, and international legal mechanisms have been mobilised to challenge ongoing State violations. https://clannproject.org/ https://jfmresearch.com/ https://openheartcitydublin.ie/seanmcdermottstreet/ https://adoption.ie/ https://www.universityofgalway.ie/irish-centre-human-rights/humanrightslawclinic/ The podcast was produced by Lisa Murray and Kirsten Larson. Intro Music: 'Smarties Intro -FMA Podcast Suggestions' by Birds for Scale (Attribution - ShareAlike 4.0 international License). Outro Music 'Smarties Outro -FMA Podcast Suggestions' by Birds for Scale (Attribution - ShareAlike 4.0 international License).

Could the resignation of Paschal Donohoe as finance minister last week have more long-term implications for the Irish Government than just a cabinet reshuffle? As Donohue departs for the World Bank, will his absence clear the way for Gerry Hutch to pull off the ultimate political heist? Host: Tabitha Monahan | Guests: Ali Bracken and Mary ReganSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Irish Government paid almost €1 million over a four-year period to provide security to US military forces at Shannon Airport. Responding to a parliamentary question from Sinn Féin, Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Simon Harris has admitted the costs of Aid to the Civil Power, or ATCP duties at Shannon Airport, came to over €965,000 between 2018 and 2021. It's understood the costs for these services from 2022 onwards are still being collated and will be released at a later date. Shannonwatch founder Edward Horgan believes the overall costs associated with the US military's use of the facility over the last number of decades are much higher.

@shaunwithafada is a bilingual content creator from Waterford. He learned his Irish in school - attending both an Irish speaking primary and secondary school. Shaun's lifestyle content interweaves Irish and English together whilst showing us glimpses into his life! He showcases Irish as a language that is alive outside of the classroom, and shows that it's more than just a school subject. Since creating his account in February of 2025, he has amassed thousands of followers and has been named in District Magazine and by the official Irish Government as one of the “Irish Language Content Creators to help Improve your Gaeilge”. He's definitely one to watch! Inspiring, energetic, and now a Conradh na Gaeilge Gaeilge24 ambassador! Míle buíochas as caint liom, a chara - A thousand gratitude for speaking to me, friend. Bhí sé ar fheabhas ar fad - It was wonderful altogether :)Find Shaun on instagram and tiktok @shaunwithafada

This week on Skip The Queue we explore the science behind ensuring good visitor experiences, by looking at the role data has to play in thisJoining me are two experts in this field, Professor Jim Deegan, economist, tourism policy expert, and founder of the National Centre for Tourism Policy Studies at the University of Limerick, and Ernesto Sánchez- Batista, an expert in destination planning and digital transformation.Together, they have been instrumental in developing a new Tourism Data Dashboard. This has been utilised to transform the visitor experience at The Cliffs of Moher, one of  Ireland's most iconic landmarks.Let's find out how, and what they've achieved.  We have launched our brand-new playbook: ‘The Retail Ready Guide to Going Beyond the Gift Shop' — your go-to resource for building a successful e-commerce strategy that connects with your audience and drives sustainable growth.Download your FREE copy here: https://pages.crowdconvert.co.uk/skip-the-queue-playbookSkip the Queue is brought to you by Crowd Convert. We provide attractions with the tools and expertise to create world-class digital interactions. Very simply, we're here to rehumanise commerce. Your host is Paul Marden.If you like what you hear, you can subscribe on iTunes, Spotify, and all the usual channels by searching Skip the Queue or visit our website SkiptheQueue.fm.If you've enjoyed this podcast, please leave us a five star review, it really helps others find us. And remember to follow us on LinkedIn.Show references:  Jim Deegan - PHD Scholar of Cliffs of Moer Projecthttps://www.cliffsofmoher.ie/https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/economy/arid-41721501.htmlhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-deegan-94438b2a/Jim Deegan is the Director of the National Centre for Tourism Policy Studies (NCTPS), University of Limerick(UL), a member of the Economics Department( Head of department, 2011-2016) ) and Professor of Tourism Policy. He is an economist by training and his research interests and publications are in all facets of public policy for tourism. Jim is a highly cited author in tourism economics/policy papers and he acts as a referee for all the top rated international journals in tourism and has served on editorial boards of numerous journals that have included the Cornell Quarterly and Tourism Economics. As director of the NCTPS at UL he has raised more than €6 million through project research and philanthropic donations  that has funded research scholarships for more than 25 students to study tourism at postgraduate level. Jim has undertaken project research on behalf of the World Bank, The European Commission, Eurostat, The Irish Government, Failte Ireland, Tourism Ireland, the Marine Institute, the Law Society and many other public and private sector organisations across the world. He was the project lead for the team that delivered Ireland's first Tourism Satellite Account in 2004.Jim has served on numerous public and private sector committees/boards on tourism issues over the last 25 years and was a founding member of the Business Tourism Forum of Failte Ireland  from 2004 and was appointed to the Board of The National Tourism Development Authority( Failte Ireland) by the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport in 2013. He is currently a board member of the Birr Scientific and Heritage Foundation. Jim was the founding chairman and a shareholder in Treaty Radio Ltd that was sold to UTV PLC for €15.7million in 2002. Ernesto Batista Sánchez - PHD Scholar of Cliffs of Moer Projecthttps://www.ul.ie/business/departments/department-economics/research/national-centre-tourism-policy-studieshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ebats/Ernesto Batista Sánchez is a PhD researcher at the National Centre for Tourism Policy Studies (NCTPS), Kemmy Business School, University of Limerick, Ireland. Prior to this, he worked as an Assistant Professor in Tourism programmes at the University of Holguín, Cuba. He graduated with a first-class honours MA in International Tourism from the University of Limerick in 2020 and holds a PhD from the University of Holguín (2024). His research explores the application of technology and data analysis in tourism. The 2025 Visitor Attraction Website Survey is now LIVE! Dive into groundbreaking benchmarks for the industryGain a better understanding of how to achieve the highest conversion ratesExplore the "why" behind visitor attraction site performanceLearn the impact of website optimisation and visitor engagement on conversion ratesUncover key steps to enhance user experience for greater conversionsTake the Rubber Cheese Visitor Attraction Website Survey Report

TechWorks Marine has commenced a comprehensive year-long metocean survey in Maritime Area A - Tonn Nua, of the Irish Government's South Coast Designated Maritime Area Plan (SC-DMAP), supporting EirGrid's Powering Up Offshore South Coast project. Commissioned by Fugro, EirGrid's appointed marine survey supplier, the survey will deliver vital baseline oceanographic and environmental data to support the development of offshore substations and grid connections along Ireland's south coast. This flagship initiative aims to connect 900 MW of offshore wind generation to Ireland's power network, accelerating national progress toward the government's target of 80% renewable energy and at least 5 GW of offshore wind in the coming years.. The Tonn Nua site is a designated area for spatially planned offshore wind, selected for its pivotal role in achieving Ireland's climate action goals and enhancing energy security for nearly a million homes. TechWorks Marine, the leading Irish-based supplier to Fugro on Powering Up Offshore South Coast, brings over 20 years of specialist expertise in metocean data collection and analysis. The data gathered will help inform the design and delivery of robust infrastructure for clean energy and support regional economic development. Charlotte O'Kelly, CEO of TechWorks Marine, commented: "We are delighted to support EirGrid and Fugro on this landmark project for Ireland's energy transition. Our team is committed to delivering world-class oceanographic data that underpins a resilient, sustainable, renewable energy system on the south coast." Speaking about the 2025 survey campaign, Chief Transformation, Technology and Offshore Officer at EirGrid, Liam Ryan, said: "These surveys would not be possible without a huge amount of coordination and strategic planning of staff across EirGrid, our strategic partners, fishing communities and local landowners. The data being gathered from this research is essential in shaping plans for the installation of this transmission infrastructure for offshore wind and creating a cleaner energy future for Ireland."

This week we talk to LCP principal Cecilia Cheuk about the latest developments in the Irish market. We discuss: • Overview of the Irish market. • What are the latest initiatives from the Irish Government and the CBI? • What has been the impact on the Irish market post Brexit? • How are firms tackling climate change and making the most of AI?

“Thats one small step for Man one giant leap for Mankind”...We may hear those words again in the coming years as yesterday Nasa announced its first crewed mission to the moon in 50 years is to take place next February, as they prepare for another lunar landing as early as 2027.Joining Kieran to discuss is Leo Enright, Space Commentator and former Chairman of the Irish Government's Science Awareness Program.

Episode 264. Should we fear Inward Migration? In this episode I cover a recent report from the Irish Government's Department of Finance which predicts the population could be set to grow to 7.6m in the coming 40 years.  This will have an impact on many areas of life in Ireland for both the native Irish and the migrants arriving on our shores - from housing, to economics, to the politics of populism and nationalism.  Lots to consider, I hope you find this one thought provoking... *** Curious about my Accelerator

eir evo has announced its successful award of the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO) Satellite Connectivity Tender. The announcement was made at the National Ploughing Championships in Tullamore, where key stakeholders gathered to mark a major milestone in Ireland's digital infrastructure strategy. Under the seven-year contract, eir evo will deliver satellite connectivity to an initial 21 sites, with the potential to scale to 300 locations. The initiative is designed to enhance the resilience of public services in remote and island communities, particularly in response to significant climate-related disruptions such as Storm Éowyn. Deployment will begin with island locations, including Inishturk, where the OGCIO and healthcare teams are already engaged in rollout planning. The satellite network will serve as a critical backup to terrestrial telecoms, supporting emergency services, healthcare continuity and local hubs in areas where traditional infrastructure is vulnerable or unavailable. As part of the agreement, eir evo has partnered with Eutelsat to deliver satellite services to the Irish Government. The OGCIO contract ensures that eir evo is the channel for delivering Eutelsat satellite services to Government entities in Ireland. Eutelsat's European footprint and advanced satellite capabilities bring technological excellence to the partnership, positioning Ireland at the forefront of resilient digital infrastructure in Europe. Susan Brady, Managing Director of eir evo, commented: "Storm Éowyn was a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by our remote communities. At eir evo, we believe connectivity is not just about access, it's about resilience, continuity and safety. Securing the OGCIO Satellite Connectivity partnership is a proud moment for us. It reflects our commitment to building infrastructure that can withstand the challenges of climate change and support critical public services when they're needed most." Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers, welcomed the announcement, saying: "I think it is particularly appropriate that we are making this announcement here at the National Ploughing Championships, which of course is not just a celebration of rural life and culture in Ireland but also an opportunity to explore the latest innovations that are already transforming the industry and will continue to support the future of agriculture. "Initiatives such as the high-speed network and satellite services and the new data centre in Backweston will help us transform our public services by ensuring they have the modern infrastructure they need to work securely and reliably, no matter where people live or what challenges arise. "The new National Low Latency Platform is a secure, high-speed network connecting government bodies across Ireland and is now fully operational. Funded through the EU's Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), the network stretches from Westport to Waterford, and Cork to Dundalk, helping public services work faster and more reliably." Minister of State with special responsibility for Public Procurement, Digitalisation and eGovernment, Emer Higgins, also attended the launch of the new technology and said: "These projects are about building strong foundations for Ireland's future. Our emergency services do a fantastic job in circumstances that can be very challenging. I am delighted to announce the delivery of the new high speed, secure communications network which will ensure emergency teams can stay connected in the most remote areas, helping people stay safe especially during bad weather or emergencies." Cyril Dujardin, President of the Connectivity Business Unit at Eutelsat, said: "Together with our partner eir evo, we are strengthening Ireland's communications backbone with the resilience of our OneWeb constellation. This capability ensures that emergency services, healthcare providers and community hubs ...

The Irish Government is once again being urged to prioritise the Occupied Territories Bill.This comes as a report was released today, signed by 80 humanitarian and faith-based organisations, saying that a ban on services must be included in the bill.Joining Seán to discuss this is Conor O'Neill, Head of Policy and Advocacy at Christian Aid Ireland and Spokesperson for the campaign to pass the Occupied Territories Bill.

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this Reboot Republic podcast, Rory talks with Khalid El-Astal, who was born in Belfast in 1993, and Melissa Murphy who is part of the Kildare Palestine Solidarity Campaign. Khalid is now living in Ireland with his two young children, Ali and Sara, who were injured in an Israeli airstrike that struck their home in October 2023, killing their mother, grandmother and uncle. His brothers Abdurrahman and Abdullah — both Irish citizens born in Belfast — remain trapped in Gaza, along with their father, Professor Ali El-Astal, who lived in Belfast for eight years while completing his PhD in Physics and researching at Queen's University. Khalid tells his family's story, and the reality on the ground in Gaza, and Melissa sets out how people can support Khalid and his family by contacting the Irish Government to urgently issue emergency travel documentation, and we discuss the impact of the grassroots campaigns in Ireland in solidarity with Palestine. Here is the link to send an email to political representatives to support Khalid's family – Irish Citizens in Gaza: https://www.instagram.com/helpirishcitizensingaza The Child Poverty Podcast with Children's Rights Alliance is out now here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-138724146 Support Dignity for Palestine here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/dignity-for-two-134250846

Kate English, Chief Economist with Deloitte Ireland, discusses the potential impact of the EU-US tarriff agreement on Irish Government spending.

National Broadband Ireland (NBI) has announced the scheduled launch of a cutting-edge 5 Gbit/s broadband offering, marking another milestone in the evolution of rural Ireland's digital infrastructure. With download speeds currently ranging from 500 Mbit/s to 2 Gbit/s, NBI is already delivering some of the fastest broadband services available in Ireland; however, the wholesale network operator, announced plans to further enhance its offering by notifying Broadband Providers of the upcoming launch of a 5 Gbit/s fibre broadband product. This next-generation capacity will deliver ultra-fast, reliable connectivity to premises in the National Broadband Plan (NBP) rollout area, accelerating economic growth, innovation, and social inclusion. This product launch sees more than a doubling its current top speed and positions users of the NBI Network as those capable of accessing some of the fastest broadband speeds globally. Key Highlights • Rural Ireland: Prioritising rural and underserved areas, the 5 Gbit/s product will be available to any premise in the National Broadband Plan rollout area. Residents and businesses can check eligibility via the NBI website (www.nbi.ie) by entering their Eircode. • Partnerships for Progress: Collaborating with over 50 different broadband providers who offer internet services over the NBI Network empowers users to choose a solution and a competitive price-point that is right for them. • Product Specs: This product includes differentiated upload speeds with a 5 Gbit/s / 500 Mbit/s (download / upload) offering for businesses including SME's, with a 5 Gbit/s / 250 Mbit/s (download / upload) offering aimed at residential users. • Use Cases: Applications of 5 Gig broadband services extends across many premises, from individual consumers using high-speed internet at home, through complex industry-specific environments requiring ultra-reliable and low-latency. Ideal for high-demand online activities such as 4K/8K streaming, online gaming, large data file transfers, remote work, accessing cloud services, IoT applications, AI driven start-ups, and supporting multiple smart devices simultaneously without lag. T.J. Malone, Chief Executive Officer of National Broadband Ireland, stated: "NBI's 5 Gig service isn't just about speed, it's about unlocking potential of virtually every sector in the country. From farmers using precision agriculture to students accessing virtual classrooms, this offering will help redefine what's possible for every home, school, farm, business and indeed community in our rollout area." Commenting on the forthcoming launch, Joe Lavin, Chief Commercial Officer of National Broadband Ireland, said: "When you look at consumer trends, whether that be smart TV adoption, 4K or higher broadcasting, the proliferation of connected home devices, as well as in-home IoT medical care applications, it's easy to understand why data usage is increasing. In response to those trends and to support our customers - broadband providers - in delivering an even better experience for users on the NBI Network, we're excited to make our 5 Gig product available in the market." National Broadband Ireland (NBI) is the company rolling out the National Broadband Plan (NBP) on behalf of the Irish Government and expects to be connecting end users to 5 Gbit/s Fibre Broadband from October 2025. See more stories here.

A top international hydrogen investor says Ireland's wind energy potential makes it an ideal location for growing our energy industry and future power options. Alicia Eastman will be a key speaker at the World Hydrogen Technologies Convention in Dublin this October. Up to 2500 delegates are expected to attend the event, which will be worth up to €4m to the economy. With nearly three decades of experience in investment, strategy, operations, and diplomacy, Alicia Eastman stands at the forefront of global sustainability and energy transition efforts. She is instrumental in developing some of the world's largest green hydrogen and ammonia projects across Australia and the Gulf Cooperation Council. Eastman is pointing to Ireland's export-led economy, strong demographics and specific energy needs as further evidence of a bright future for energy investment here: "The Irish Government's programme for capital investment in energy and infrastructure is well recognised. One of the biggest arguments for investing in a hydrogen project in Ireland is the potential to draw on a fantastic offshore wind resource - it's a wonderful, stable source of energy that can serve the country well. When combined with solar and hydrogen, the capacity factor in Ireland could be quite high, lowering the costs and need for batteries or fossil fuel backup. In addition, Ireland is known for being a positive, welcoming place to establish a business with a highly educated workforce and attractive business support". When it comes to moving away from fossil fuels, Alicia Eastman is committed to an energy optimisation approach: "Nobody is expected to start from zero. My primary focus is energy optimisation, so first, I am interested in any technologies that optimise energy usage, as that's a clear win financially and environmentally. Replacing fossil fuels becomes easier as we can be green and maintain or even reduce the total cost of ownership. This requires evaluating all existing and future energy resources that do not produce greenhouse gases and layering them in as they become technically and economically feasible, such as hydrogen and derivatives." Paul McCormack is CEO of Hydrogen Ireland, which will host WHTC2025. He welcomed Alicia's approach: "We've been highlighting that hydrogen is not a silver bullet for our future energy needs for several years. Its role is as a vital energy vector that will act to maximise the potential and interaction of multiple forms of energy in our future lives. We are building a programme of speakers for the World Hydrogen Technologies Convention this October that will present forward-thinking ideas and solutions in a location that is seen as having a bright and prosperous future in the world of renewables. There is no better place or time to bring these experts to our audience and spark new connections and possibilities in our sector". The World Hydrogen Technologies Convention is one of the best-known conventions in the fields of hydrogen energy and fuel cell technology. Garrett Monaghan, Partner, Pinsent Masons Ireland LLP and Chairperson of Hydrogen Ireland, says this is an exciting time for Ireland to host such a prestigious event: "Internationally, hydrogen has rapidly evolved as an asset class with sharper and realistic focus on use cases, support schemes and project economics. With the volume of projected renewable electricity generation, Ireland can play a particular role in the production and application of hydrogen to existing and new sectors of the Irish and global economy. My colleagues at Hydrogen Ireland, our sponsors, and I are all looking forward to bringing everyone together". WHTC 2025 will take place at the Clayton Hotel Leeson Street from October 21 - 23. Registration is open now, and full details of the event are available at whtc2025.com

The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission is calling for the Irish Government to ensure that victims of historical sexual abuse in schools are properly and promptly provided with redress. The commission say they fully agree with Minister Helen McEntee that those responsible must pay, but point out that it must include the State. Liam Herrick, Chief Commissioner with the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission joined Pat Kenny on the show to discuss.

PayPal has announced that it will create 100 new highly skilled data science roles at its Dublin office. This expansion reflects the company's commitment to investing in the future of commerce through advanced data science and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities and marks a new chapter in the transformation of its Irish operations. The new AI team in Dublin will serve as a key spoke in PayPal's global network, working in close coordination with PayPal's other innovation hubs. This hiring initiative is being supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland, the country's investment promotion and development agency, and comes as PayPal continues to evolve its Dublin site beyond its roots as a customer service hub into a centre for innovation at the forefront of the global digital economy. "As we shape the next generation of digital payments, the talent and innovation coming from Ireland will play a critical role," said Aaron J. Webster, Global Chief Risk Officer at PayPal. "This expansion reflects both our confidence in the local ecosystem and our ambition to build an AI-driven, data-powered future that embeds trust and safety in every transaction. We are proud to deepen our commitment to Ireland and to invest in highly skilled roles that will help shape the future of PayPal globally." The new roles will span a range of disciplines, including AI engineering, data science, software development, risk modeling, and cybersecurity. These positions will support key strategic priorities such as loss prevention and enhancing outstanding customer experiences, placing innovation at the core of PayPal's global mission. Webster added: "Our work to solve some of the most intricate and critical commerce challenges globally is fueled by the unprecedented scale of our platform and unmatched data at our fingertips. We are redefining what is possible by empowering data scientists to push boundaries, harness cutting-edge AI, and transform the future of fraud detection and payment security." Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, said: "This announcement by PayPal is a strong vote of confidence in Ireland as a location for high-value tech investment. The creation of 100 highly skilled roles in cutting-edge fields like AI and data science reinforces our status as a global hub for innovation, and I would like to commend PayPal for its ongoing partnership with IDA Ireland." Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland, said: ''I am delighted with PayPal's decision to create up to 100 new highly skilled tech jobs in Ireland. This is a testament to Ireland's enduring appeal as a location for high-value investments. We are proud to support this growth and look forward to the continued success of PayPal in Ireland.'' Open positions can be found here See more stories here..

Arm, the company that is building the future of computing, recently celebrated the official opening of its new state-of-the-art facility in Galway City. Since establishing operations in Galway in 2014, Arm has expanded to 90 staff members locally and more than 4800 employees across Europe. Arm's facility at Crown Square, which recently welcomed a visit from Taoiseach Micheál Martin, will become home to innovative advancements in technology. This project is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland. Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment Peter Burke TD said: "The opening of Arm's new facility in Galway is a strong endorsement of Ireland's position as a global hub for research, innovation and advanced semiconductor technologies. We recently launched Silicon Island: Ireland's National Semiconductor Strategy, which aims to have Ireland firmly at the forefront of the global semiconductor industry, targeting emerging technologies, showcasing our manufacturing expertise, R&D capacity, and enterprise supports, which will generate high-quality, highly skilled employment opportunities across Ireland. I thank Arm for its continued commitment to Galway and look forward to the positive impact this will have on the region and the wider economy. I wish all the team at Arm every success for the future." "Ireland's new National Semiconductor Strategy underscores the country's growing importance in the global technology landscape," said Mike Lardner, senior director, Engineering, Arm. "We're proud that our teams in Galway are helping deliver the computing foundations for the next era of innovation - advancing research, strengthening the local ecosystem, and building the future of AI on Arm." IDA Ireland CEO Michael Lohan said, "I wish to congratulate Arm on this strategic move into a new state-of-the-art facility in Galway City. A key player in the semiconductor industry, Arm is recognised for its capability in mobile and licensing of chip designs. This new Galway facility is part of Arm's strategy to expand its market reach and talent pool in Ireland, supporting innovative work in semiconductor and technology development. I'd like to wish Arm continued success." 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.

I'm going to be a voice for these childrenChris Page, the BBC's Ireland correspondent speaks to the Irish historian Catherine Corless, who has changed history in her own country.When she began to research a long-closed mother and baby home near where she lived, she encountered local resistance. But her dogged investigation led to the discovery that hundreds of babies and young children were buried in mass, unmarked graves inside a disused sewage tank at the site in Tuam, Ireland.Her work led to the discovery of the scandal of Ireland's historical mother and baby institutions, which housed unmarried mothers and their babies at a time when they were ostracized by Irish society and often their families too. An inquiry launched by the Irish government into the network of homes concluded about nine thousand children died in the eighteen homes investigated.The revelation led to apologies from the Catholic Church in Ireland, the Irish Government, the council which owned the home in Tuam and the religious order which ran the home. The order has also contributed millions of dollars to a compensation scheme, and to the excavation now underway in Tuam.Thank you to Chris Page and Chrissie McGlinchey from the BBC's Ireland bureau for their help in making this programme. The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC. You can listen on the BBC World Service, Mondays and Wednesdays at 0700 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out twice a week on BBC Sounds, Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.Presenter: Chris Page Producers: Lucy Sheppard and Chrissie McGlinchey Editor: Nick HollandGet in touch with us on email TheInterview@bbc.co.uk and use the hashtag #TheInterviewBBC on social media.(Image: Catherine Corless. Credit: PA)

Hollister Incorporated, a global leader in ostomy, continence, wound care and critical care products has announced an €80m R&D investment and a digital transformation project that will create approximately 50 new jobs in Ballina. The multimillion-euro investment aims to elevate Ballina into a global epicentre of expertise through novel device design and extensive site-wide training, setting a benchmark for digital transformation within Hollister's global network. This project is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland. Minister for Social Protection and Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary TD said: "This is a terrific day for Ballina and North Mayo with the announcement of 50 additional jobs for the region. Hollister is more than just a manufacturing plant in Ballina; it is one of the mainstays of our community. Today, second and third generations of families are employed there boosting the local economy and contributing to the everyday life of the town. I want to pay credit to Shane Caher and all of the staff in Hollister who have dedicated themselves to Ballina and to the West of Ireland but also to all of the past Hollister management and staff who's work, and commitment is the foundation of the plant's success today. Finally, I would like to acknowledge IDA Ireland for their continued support to Hollister and across Mayo. I very much look forward to what the next 50 years will bring for Hollister and Ballina" Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Alan Dillon TD, said: "This €80 million investment by Hollister Inc. is very welcome news. It is a powerful endorsement of Ballina's skilled workforce and Ireland's reputation as a hub for innovation in healthcare manufacturing. To see a long-standing employer, like Hollister, continue to grow and evolve through cutting-edge research and digital transformation is very encouraging. The creation of 50 new high-quality jobs will also bring economic and social benefits to the region. On behalf of the Irish Government, I thank Hollister for its continued commitment to Ballina and the West of Ireland, and I wish the team there the very best for the future and many more years of success here in Co. Mayo." Founded in 1921 in Illinois, the US MedTech manufacturer has been part of the fabric of Ballina since 1976, where it now employs almost 1000 people. Hollister is currently recruiting in the areas of Engineering, Data Science and Business Services. To explore opportunities, visit Career Opportunities | Hollister IE. "We are thrilled to announce this significant milestone for Hollister Incorporated. Our commitment to innovation and excellence continues to drive us forward, and this investment in our research program and digital transformation project is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team," said Shane Caher, Senior Director of Plant Operations and General Manager. "We look forward to the exciting opportunities that lie ahead as we continue to deliver on Our Mission to make life more rewarding and dignified for those who use our products and services." IDA Ireland CEO Michael Lohan said: "Since 1976, Hollister has been creating jobs and investment in Co. Mayo. In the intervening near 50 years, Hollister has again and again committed to and delivered on its ambitions for its Irish operations. Supporting Hollister and companies across IDA Ireland's client portfolio with R&D investment and digital transformation endeavours sits right at the heart of Adapt Intelligently: A Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Innovation 2025-29. I wish to congratulate Hollister and assure them of IDA Ireland's continued support." 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://...

In this episode, Niall asks: Should there be limits on free speech?The EU is pressuring the Irish Government to bring in stricter hate speech laws that would make it illegal to say or share certain things that are seen as inciting hatred or violence. Some say this is badly needed to protect vulnerable groups. Others believe it is a dangerous step towards censorship and losing the right to speak freely.Some callers supported tighter rules, saying free speech should not mean giving people a free pass to spread hate, threats, or messages that fuel real-world violence. They argued that with so much online abuse and polarisation, clear limits help keep communities safe.Others argued the opposite. They said once you start restricting speech, it becomes easy for governments to control what people can say about anything, including politics. They warned that fear of saying the wrong thing could silence ordinary people and damage honest debate.As Niall points out, this debate is about finding a balance — how to protect people from harm without losing the freedom to speak your mind.

John and Sarah ask if the Irish Government is addicted to pointless statements on the middle east, discuss the ubiquity of the Pride Flag, and ask why RTE's current affairs shows are so poor. Also: Sarah's favourite new Netflix show is revealed:

The Irish Government and IDA Ireland today welcomed IBM's announcement to create additional high-value jobs in the south-east of the country. The leading global technology company will, over the next three years, hire up to 75 software engineers, dedicated to research and development (R&D), based in Waterford. The roles will focus on cutting-edge innovation for IBM Z, the infrastructure powering 70% of global transactions by value. The Waterford software engineers will closely collaborate with IBM's R&D teams around the world, from designing processors and firmware to software development and advancing the Linux operating system. Peter Burke TD, Minister for Enterprise Tourism & Employment, said: "IBM's decision to expand its operations in Waterford with the creation of up to 75 highly-skilled software engineering roles is very welcome news. This investment is a strong endorsement of the South-East region's growing reputation as a hub for innovation and advanced technology. It also reflects the government's commitment to supporting regional development and fostering strong partnerships between industry and academia. I commend IBM for its continued confidence in Ireland and for its collaboration with the South-East Technological University to build a future-ready workforce." Jack Chambers TD, Minister for Public Expenditure & Reform, said: "I welcome this very positive development which underscores Ireland's attractiveness as a location for businesses to invest in and to expand R&D operations. This strengthens IBM's long-standing presence in Ireland where it employs thousands of people today. IBM has cited Ireland's strong talent pool as a key factor in allowing the company to grow here, which reflects the significant increased investment by the Government in education, and particularly our third-level sector, over recent years. We are committed to supporting research and development in our tech sector, including in the South-East of our country, to drive balanced, regional development and economic growth." In addition to the expansion of R&D functions in Waterford, IDA Ireland also welcomes IBM's decision to deepen its collaboration with the South East Technological University, to develop a technical skills ecosystem with a focus on mainframes and Linux. Nathan Cullen, country general manager, IBM Ireland, said: "I am delighted to see our footprint in Ireland evolve further. This is testimony to the deep talent pools available across the country, upon which we have steadily built our business, including mainframes which are a cornerstone of global transactions. IBM has now operated in Ireland for nearly 70 years and this milestone investment for the region also speaks volumes about the ecosystem that has built up around the South Eastern Technical University." IBM last year announced the recruitment of another 800 high-tech jobs in Ireland by 2027, cementing the country's position as a globally strategic location for the company. These new roles, spanning R&D, digital sales and Consulting operations, will be spread across Dublin, Cork and Waterford. Michael Lohan, IDA Ireland CEO, said: "This R&D investment announced by IBM is fantastic news for Waterford and indeed the South East Region. This investment is also closely aligned to Adapt Intelligently: A Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Innovation, 2025-29, where IDA has committed to positioning Ireland at the centre of cutting-edge global technological innovation in the next five years. I warmly welcome this decision by IBM and assure them of IDA's continued partnership."

Michael is a renowned artist who hails from Dublin but now calls Lahinch his home. Michael came to prominence when he was appointed by the Irish Government as the official artist for the historic Royal visit of Queen Elizabeth to Ireland. Indeed, three of his paintings hang in Buckingham Palace. Michael has been commissioned by Aercap, the world's largest aircraft leasing company, to help celebrate 50 years of flight on canvas. To discuss this further, Michael Hanrahan joined Alan Morrissey in-studio.

Simon Harris, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, discusses the response to the deteriorating situation in Gaza by both the Irish Government and the European Union.

Episode 254. From Crisis to Chaos: Is the Housing System Beyond Repair? In this episode, I confront the accelerating dysfunction in Ireland's housing system. I explore why the traditional narrative that paints landlords as villains is flawed and how the exodus of landlords is shrinking rental supply, driving rents to unsustainable levels. I dive into the unintended economic consequences of this landlord exodus and the knock-on effects it has on recruitment, foreign investment, and job growth. The episode also tackles the failed appointment of a “housing czar” and the political gridlock stalling progress, as well as the economic warning from Ireland's Central Bank governor. I question whether we're truly facing a crisis—or has it now become chaos? *** Curious about my Accelerator

Russia's secretive Cosmos 2553 satellite, which has seemingly been spinning out of control lately, has raised alarming questions about the potential use of weapons in space.Joining Seán to discuss is Leo Enright, Space Commentator and former Chairman of the Irish Government's Science Awareness programme…

Michael Lehane, Political Correspondent

The Re-interment of Frank Stagg. Last week we remembered Frank Stagg who died on hunger strike in an English prison in February 1976. Frank began his fourth and final hunger strike in December 1975. He died 62 days later. He last request was "to be buried next to my republican colleagues and my comrade, Michael Gaughan" who died on hunger strike two years earlier. Michael had been buried in Ballina with republican honours.Faced with the prospect of another high-profile funeral of a republican hunger striker the plane carrying Frank Stagg's coffin was diverted by the Irish Government from Dublin, where the Stagg family and friends were waiting, to Shannon. Frank's body was hijacked and taken by helicopter to Ballina, where it was buried. A 24-hour guard was put in place and concrete was poured over it to prevent the family from exhuming the coffin.Frank's brother George later described how, when  he took his mother to visit the grave, Special Branch officers took photographs of her as she knelt and prayed. Slán Brendan.This week came with the death of our comrade and friend, Bik McFarlane. 

We discussed the Jake Paul Tyson Fight, Irish Uk past and current events, GDPR and more   About my Guest: Ex Royal Navy gunner and armourer, turned professional fighter. Owned and ran own martial arts gym for about 30 years. Always been aware of something not being right in the world, went deep into it after losing over £1million of property in 1 week including own home. So been up and been down even living in a car for a while with his wife Janine and 4 dogs.   --- Help Support the show through my Business Partners :    Find Virtual Assistants at https://va.world/   Upgrade Your Brain    Unleash & Use Your Uniqueness   https://braingym.fitness/⁠    -------------------------- Awakening Podcast Social Media / Coaching My Other Podcasts    ⁠⁠⁠https://roycoughlan.com/⁠⁠   Health & Wellness Products   https://partnerco.world/   My Website https://partner.co/?custid=N6543249    ------------------ What we Discussed:   - How has Jake Paul & Tyson fight effect Boxing (2 mins) - The disrespect with fighter now ( 6:30 mins) - Should the ladies fight be stopped with the big gash on her eye ( 10 mins) - His event on Trust Asset Protection (15 mins) - The UK new inheritance law that effect the Farmers (16:30 mins) - Should we pay Tax (22 min) - Churchill was n ot a Hero (30 mins) - Was the 6 Million Jews killed a lie (32:45 mins) - Ireland destroyed by the British empire (39:45 mins) - The White Paper for Bitcoin was released in Halloween (42:30 mins) - Coca Cola created Santa (44 mins) - Dealing with Debt Collectors (49 mins) - You need 100+ people to change the correct systems (51 mins) - They are taking our images but not for security (55 mins) - Toxic Chemical confirmed being sprayed to kill foxes (58 mins) - Spraying on the plane in India (1 hr 2:45 mins) - Trump, JFK & Musk eating Mc Donalds (1 hr 5 mins) - Trump admitted he got Jabbed and Ivanka did a phot shoot (1 hr 6 :30 mins) - What is inalienable rights (1 hr 8 mins) - The Courts jailing the wrong people (1 hr 12 mins) - No point in Voting ( 1 hr 15:30 mins) - The Irish Property Government Scam (1 hr 19 mins) - Why do the have a Chair of a major Political party in charge ( 1 hr 22 mins) - The Irish Seanad 2nd house like House of Lords (1 hrs 24 mins) - How to protect yourself with a company (1 hr 29 :30 mins)   How to Contact Peter:   https://www.claimyourstrawman.com/   https://www.checkmatethematrix.com/   https://linktr.ee/PeterWilsonReturnToDemocracy     ------------------------------ More about the Awakening Podcast: All Episodes can be found at www.awakeningpodcast.org     Help Support the show through my Business Partners :   Upgrade Your Brain    Unleash & Use Your Uniqueness   https://braingym.fitness/⁠    -------------------------- Awakening Podcast Social Media / Coaching My Other Podcasts    ⁠⁠⁠https://roycoughlan.com/⁠⁠   Health & Wellness Products   https://partnerco.world/   My Website https://partner.co/?custid=N6543249   Our Facebook Group can be found at https://www.facebook.com/royawakening

We discussed the Jake Paul Tyson Fight, Irish Uk past and current events, GDPR and more   About my Guest: Ex Royal Navy gunner and armourer, turned professional fighter. Owned and ran own martial arts gym for about 30 years. Always been aware of something not being right in the world, went deep into it after losing over £1million of property in 1 week including own home. So been up and been down even living in a car for a while with his wife Janine and 4 dogs.   --- Help Support the show through my Business Partners :    Find Virtual Assistants at https://va.world/   Upgrade Your Brain    Unleash & Use Your Uniqueness   https://braingym.fitness/⁠    -------------------------- Awakening Podcast Social Media / Coaching My Other Podcasts    ⁠⁠⁠https://roycoughlan.com/⁠⁠   Health & Wellness Products   https://partnerco.world/   My Website https://partner.co/?custid=N6543249    ------------------ What we Discussed:   - How has Jake Paul & Tyson fight effect Boxing (2 mins) - The disrespect with fighter now ( 6:30 mins) - Should the ladies fight be stopped with the big gash on her eye ( 10 mins) - His event on Trust Asset Protection (15 mins) - The UK new inheritance law that effect the Farmers (16:30 mins) - Should we pay Tax (22 min) - Churchill was n ot a Hero (30 mins) - Was the 6 Million Jews killed a lie (32:45 mins) - Ireland destroyed by the British empire (39:45 mins) - The White Paper for Bitcoin was released in Halloween (42:30 mins) - Coca Cola created Santa (44 mins) - Dealing with Debt Collectors (49 mins) - You need 100+ people to change the correct systems (51 mins) - They are taking our images but not for security (55 mins) - Toxic Chemical confirmed being sprayed to kill foxes (58 mins) - Spraying on the plane in India (1 hr 2:45 mins) - Trump, JFK & Musk eating Mc Donalds (1 hr 5 mins) - Trump admitted he got Jabbed and Ivanka did a phot shoot (1 hr 6 :30 mins) - What is inalienable rights (1 hr 8 mins) - The Courts jailing the wrong people (1 hr 12 mins) - No point in Voting ( 1 hr 15:30 mins) - The Irish Property Government Scam (1 hr 19 mins) - Why do the have a Chair of a major Political party in charge ( 1 hr 22 mins) - The Irish Seanad 2nd house like House of Lords (1 hrs 24 mins) - How to protect yourself with a company (1 hr 29 :30 mins)   How to Contact Peter:   https://www.claimyourstrawman.com/   https://www.checkmatethematrix.com/   https://linktr.ee/PeterWilsonReturnToDemocracy     ------------------------------ More about the Awakening Podcast: All Episodes can be found at www.awakeningpodcast.org     Help Support the show through my Business Partners :   Upgrade Your Brain    Unleash & Use Your Uniqueness   https://braingym.fitness/⁠    -------------------------- Awakening Podcast Social Media / Coaching My Other Podcasts    ⁠⁠⁠https://roycoughlan.com/⁠⁠   Health & Wellness Products   https://partnerco.world/   My Website https://partner.co/?custid=N6543249   Our Facebook Group can be found at https://www.facebook.com/royawakening