Month: June 2025

UX Firm Each&Other Creates 10 New Jobs in UK Expansion and will Invest €500k in its Team to Support the Expansion of Fractional UX and Service Capabilities

Each&Other, one of Ireland’s leading independent digital consultancies, is creating 10 new jobs in the UK and Dublin as it continues to scale the company.  The company is investing €500k in its team to support the expansion and enhance its fractional UX and service design capabilities.

UK industry veteran, Ben Logan has been appointed as UK Strategy & Growth Lead.  Ben was founder and former MD of Spotless, a London-based UX Research and Service Design agency and brings over 20 years of leadership experience to Each&Other.

The new jobs, due to be created by the end of 2026, will be in the areas of UX designers, graphic designers and content strategists serving International clients and will bring the total number of employees at Each&Other to 35.

Each&Other delivers award-winning digital experiences using a customer-centred approach to product development.  The company helps clients to grow their business, increase customer satisfaction and ship great products.  Creativity, people and partnerships are intrinsic to the company.  With their combined strengths and diverse expertise, Each&Other is committed to making a difference to each client’s unique requirements.

“2025 represents a huge milestone in Each&Other’s history,” explains Brian Herron, Director at Each&Other.  “We have grown rapidly since our founding, and we continue to scale the company at a fast pace.  Each&Other is a dynamic, ambitious and innovation-led company at the cutting edge of its industry.  We are delighted to welcome Ben to help us grow in the UK, enter new markets and continue to deliver world-class strategy, research and design for our clients.  This is an exciting time for the company and it’s a great opportunity for talented people to join our growing team.”

Each&Other’s clients span technology, finance, government, telecoms, retail and education companies.

About Each&Other

Each&Other is an Irish strategic UX design firm delivering digital customer experiences that help organisations grow and deliver great digital products to their customers.  Creativity, people and partnerships are intrinsic to Each&Other.  With their combined strengths and diverse expertise, the company is committed to making a difference to each client’s unique requirements.

Established in 2014, Each&Other is based in Dublin, employs 25 people and delivers research and digital design projects throughout EU, Middle East and USA.

HighPoint’s Half-Length NVMe AICs empower compact systems with true x16 Storage Performance

In the ever-evolving landscape of high-performance computing, space efficiency, and raw speed are often at odds. However, HighPoint Technologies is changing the game with its new Rocket 7604A and Rocket 1604A PCIe Gen5 NVMe AICs, which deliver true x16 storage performance in a half-length, compact form factor. These solutions are ideal for small form factor tower servers, rackmount chassis, and edge computing environments where space is limited, but performance must remain uncompromised.

Designed for modern workloads that demand high-speed, high-capacity storage, the Rocket 7604A and Rocket 1604A enable systems to directly host up to 64TB of NVMe storage without the need for internal drive bays or additional cooling components. This makes them a perfect fit for edge computing, AI, and data-intensive applications where every inch of space matters.

Server-Grade NVMe AICs for Maximum Flexibility

Both the Rocket 7604A and Rocket 1604A are server-grade PCIe Add-In Cards (AICs) that support up to 8x off-the-shelf M.2 2280 SSDs, regardless of their speed or capacity. This flexibility allows users to tailor their storage configurations to specific needs, whether it’s high-speed read/write for AI training or large capacity for data archiving.

The Rocket 7604A and Rocket 1604A are not just about capacity—they deliver real-world performance of up to 56GB/s using just four drives. This is made possible by HighPoint’s advanced PCIe Gen5 switching and RAID technologies, ensuring that storage systems can keep up with the most demanding workloads.

Powerful Cooling for Sustained Performance

One of the biggest challenges in compact systems is thermal management. HighPoint addresses this with self-contained cooling solutions that effectively prevent thermal throttling, even under heavy, sustained I/O operations. This ensures that NVMe SSDs maintain their peak performance without the need for extra cooling devices or complex thermal management setups, making the AICs ideal for edge environments where space and power are limited.

Rocket 1604A Switch AIC: Gen5 Speeds with Native Support

The Rocket 1604A Switch AIC is designed for users who want to leverage PCIe Gen5 speeds without the hassle of software or drivers. It offers simple drop-in installation and is natively supported by modern Windows and Linux platforms, meaning it is automatically recognized and ready to use right out of the box.

With no need for additional software, the Rocket 1604A is perfect for environments that prioritize ease of deployment and simple serviceability.HighPoint’s proven PCIe Switching architecture ensures each M.2 SSD operates at maximum throughput under the most challenging workloads.

Rocket 7604A RAID AIC: Customizable Storage for Critical Applications

For users who need more than just speed—those who require flexibility, performance, and security—the Rocket 7604A RAID AIC offers a powerful solution. It supports RAID 0, 1, and 10 configurations, allowing users to balance speed, redundancy, and data protection according to their specific needs.

The Rocket 7604A’s Active Hardware Sensor Monitoring solution and a Comprehensive NVMe Storage Management Suite, give administrators real-time insights into drive health, temperature, and performance. These features are essential for environments where data integrity and system reliability are paramount.

In Summary

Whether it’s for AI model training, real-time data analytics, or media production, the Rocket 7604A and Rocket 1604A deliver the storage performance and dependability that professionals need in a compact, easy to integrate add-in-card form factor. As the demand for edge computing and portable high-performance systems continues to rise, HighPoint’s half-length NVMe AICs are setting a new benchmark for storage innovation.

Learn More

Rocket 7604A – PCIe Gen5 x16 to 4x M.2 NVMe RAID Adapter

Product page: https://www.highpoint-tech.com/rocket-7604a-individual-page/

Buy Now: https://www.highpoint-tech.com/product-page/rocket-7604a

Rocket 1604A – PCIe Gen5 x16 to 4x M.2 NVMe Switch AIC

Product page: https://www.highpoint-tech.com/rocket-1604a-individual-page/

Buy Now: https://www.highpoint-tech.com/product-page/rocket-1604a

Aer Lingus Launches Onboard Digital Donations in Support of UNICEF

Aer Lingus and UNICEF Ireland has announced the launch of a new onboard digital donation capability, offering customers new ways to contribute to UNICEF’s vital work for children around the world. Customers flying on Aer Lingus long-haul services can now scan a QR code or tap their bank card on cabin crew devices to make quick, secure donations directly to UNICEF during their flight, in addition to the traditional collection of cash donations.

Onboard digital payments are the latest development in Aer Lingus’ partnership with UNICEF that spans over two decades. Since 1997, Aer Lingus and its customers have raised over $23 million in support of UNICEF’s global programmes – funding essential services such as clean water, nutrition, vaccines, education, and emergency relief for children living in some of the world’s most challenging environments.

With many travellers now carrying less cash, this new digital option ensures donations are more accessible and convenient than ever before. Cash donations will still be gratefully accepted onboard, providing customers with flexibility in how they choose to give.

Onboard, customers will hear a video message from UNICEF Ireland Ambassador, Broadcaster and Rugby Player, Donncha O’Callaghan, highlighting some of UNICEF’s key work and outlining how donations can be made in three easy ways – via a QR code, without needing to pay for Wi-Fi, by contactless card payment on crew devices, or by sharing cash donations.

Aer Lingus will also support a number of special collections on board both its long-haul and short-haul services in 2025, with a special collection for Ecuador to take place in the coming weeks. The special appeal for Ecuador follows a visit by Aer Lingus UNICEF Ambassadors to Ecuador earlier this year, who witnessed first-hand the issue of unsafe drinking water in many parts of the country. It’s estimated that 6 out of 10 children under five in Ecuador are drinking contaminated water, putting them at risk of deadly disease, parasites, and chronic malnutrition. Through this special collection and the introduction of onboard digital donations, Aer Lingus aims to boost awareness and funding for UNICEF’s work on the ground in Ecuador to provide safe water, and hygiene facilities to keep children healthy and in school.

Commenting at the launch, Lynne Embleton, CEO of Aer Lingus, said: “Our partnership with UNICEF is embraced across Aer Lingus, especially by our cabin crew who champion it onboard our transatlantic services every day. Thanks to our customers’ generosity, we’ve raised over $23 million to date and we want to keep growing that figure. Digital donations on board is a natural next step in our partnership, to bring new ways for customers to support UNICEF’s vital work worldwide.”

Peter Power, Executive Director of UNICEF Ireland, added: “Aer Lingus customers have shown extraordinary generosity over the past 28 years, and we’re delighted to see this partnership evolve in line with the digital age. These donations help us respond faster and more effectively to the needs of children who are most at risk around the world.”

UNICEF ambassador Donncha O’Callaghan, added: “I’ve been on the ground with UNICEF seeing first-hand the difference UNICEF makes for children who are facing the hardest of circumstances – kids who’ve lost everything, but still have hope. That hope is possible because of support from partners like Aer Lingus and their customers. For over 25 years, in-flight donations have helped change lives. This new way of donating onboard might seem like a small gesture, but I can tell you—it matters. It really can change a child’s future.”

For more information, visit aerlingus.com

Increasing Irish Immigration Amid the First 100 Days of Trump’s Presidency: How Have Businesses and Citizens Reacted?

The fear element that was released by Trump’s re-inauguration for second tenure caused a spike in Irish immigration. Trump’s stance on immigration during his first tenure was considered extreme and a threat to the freedom and security of millions of immigrants.

During his campaign for second tenure in 2024, he promised to double down and be far more aggressive about implementing the most spectacular migration crackdown. Irish-Americans who were in the US legally and illegally found the policies of President Trump hanging over them.

The immigration raids went up after President Trump returned to office, causing an increase in anxiety in the immigrant community including undocumented Irish people.

Notably, the United States and Ireland share relations beyond common ancestral ties and shared values. The relations extend to regular dialogue on political and economic issues, and official exchange in areas such as medical research and education.

President Trump recently declared March, ‘Irish-American Heritage Month’, because the Irish voted for him heavily in November 2024. If the Irish and Americans share such deep historical ties, how then do recent immigration policies specifically impact Irish immigrants?

This article will explore the reason behind the increase in Irish immigration amid the first 100 days of Trump’s presidency. It will analyze the fear and uncertainty felt by documented and undocumented Irish citizens in the US, and how businesses and citizens have reacted.

The Landscape of Irish Immigration to the US Before Trump’s Presidency

To understand the long-standing trend of Irish immigration to the United States, you need to know its landscape particularly before the early 20th century. Most Irish immigrants before the Great Famine were Protestants, and the Great Famine led to a massive influx of Irish Catholics.

Irish Immigration to the US slowed during the Great Depression and after the Immigration Act of 1924. Currently, over 31 million people claim Irish descent in the US, and although the exact number of undocumented Irish citizens is difficult to establish, it has been estimated to be about 10,000 people.

Common Legal Pathways for Irish Immigration to the US

Over the years, Irish citizens have legally relocated to the US through the various visa pathways.

The first pathway is through the immigrant visas for Irish citizens who wish to reside permanently in the US. They migrate through family-based visas, employment-based visas and diversity lottery visas.

The second pathway is through the non-immigrant visas for Irish citizens who want to enter the US for specific reasons over a temporary period.

The table below explains it further.

 

Visa Types Purpose
1 B visas B-1 for business B-2 for tourism
2 F visas For students
3 H visas For temporary workers H-1B for skilled workers

H-2A/H-2B for seasonal workers.
4 J visas For exchange visitors
5 K visas For fiancees/spouses of U.S citizens.
6 L visas For intra-company transferees
7 O visas For individuals with extraordinary abilities in science, film, athletics, or arts
8 P visas For athletes and entertainers
9 R visas For religious workers
10 U visas For victims of crime
11 V visas For family members of U.S. citizens who are in the process of obtaining permanent residence.

 

Only 1% of over 10,000 Irish immigrants have legally moved permanently to the United States. The Ireland’s Prime Minister’s meeting with President Trump in March shows the Irish’s Government lobbying efforts to secure pathways to legal status for undocumented Irish in the US.

Trump’s First 100 Days: Key Immigration Policies and Their Immediate Implications

In an interview with CBS News, Aisling, an undocumented Irish waitress claims that since ICE started raiding her neighbourhood, she fears that she may become a ‘collateral damage’.

This highlights the effect of Trump’s immigration policies on Irish citizens, but could that have been the cause of the increase in Irish immigration?

We will now consider key immigration policies and their immediate implications:

 

  1. Deportation of Migrants

Over 1,000 people were removed on the fourth day of the Trump administration, and in the same week of entering office, over 5,000 people were detained by Border Patrol in San Diego and El Paso, Texas to be deported.

 

2. Ending the Migrants and Asylum Seekers Process

Within 100 days of being in office, President Trump suspended the entry  of all undocumented migrants to the US and ordered border patrol agents to turn asylum seekers away without a hearing.

3. Scrapping the CBP One Smartphone App

Immediately Trump took office, the CBP One smartphone app, which migrants used to schedule appointments with US border patrol agents, was taken down and over 30,000 people with schedule appointments were said to be stranded inside Mexico.

4. Unannounced Raids and Increasing the Powers of ICE

The statistics released by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) showed that approximately 6,648 undocumented immigrants were arrested within a week that Trump was sworn into office.

Most Irish immigrants believed that they could easily blend in when there was a raid because only criminals were targeted. However, the intensity of the raid made them scared and stopped going to work, church or even school.

 

Immigration experts believe that the aim was to force people to self-deport before they are caught. Could this be the reason why Irish immigration skyrocketed during that period?

Impact of Trump’s Presidency on Irish Immigration

How Irish Citizens and the Diaspora Reacted

Although, the Irish community in America lived in fear and anxiety of their undocumented status, some of them who were interviewed by CBS news believed that communities of color, hispanics and latinos are bearing the brunt of the immigration crackdown.

There were, however, reservations on becoming a ‘collateral damage’ target for the intense ICE raids. In an interview with BBC, Chicago-based immigration lawyer, Fionaa McEntee expresses that some Irish-Americans have empathy for what other people are going through and they stand in solidarity with them.

Even those with Green card are reluctant to travel due to concerns about anti-immigrant sentiment. The increased tension amongst Irish-Americans after Trump’s inauguration made those with Irish descent to consider returning back to Ireland, while others are considering relocating to Ireland to start afresh.

How Businesses Are Responding to Increased Irish Immigration

Employers express worry over workplace raids because they believe that it will lead to an exodus of workers in jobs that many Americans don’t want to do, but the White House is resisting.

Most tech and pharma companies that depend on their partnership with Ireland fear that the political tension in America will discourage investment decisions of Irish-based employers in the US.

Allbound and Channel Mechanics Unite Under a Single Brand: Channelscaler, creating 50 new high-tech jobs

Channel Mechanics + Allbound, two established leaders in the Partner Relationship Management (PRM) and Channel Program Automation space, has announced the successful completion of their merger. The unified entity will now operate under the new brand, Channelscaler.

Welcoming the company’s announcement to create an additional 50 highly skilled positions to support market demand for its platform, Galway based Minister Hildegarde Naughton said “Galway’s reputation for a highly trained and skilled workforce continues to attract significant investment, as evidenced by Channelscaler’s job announcement today. Having witnessed the company’s incredible journey and seeing their ambitious growth plans I have no doubt they will continue to put Galway on the map as the global leader in channel automation software.”

This strategic rebrand marks a significant milestone, combining the strengths and expertise of both companies. Channelscaler represents a shared vision for the future of partner program execution: intelligent, integrated, and built to scale.

“Today marks a significant milestone as we go to market under a unified brand uniting two incredible companies,” said Kenneth Fox, CEO, Channelscaler. This isn’t just a name change, it’s a statement of intent. We’re combining intuitive partner engagement with enterprise-grade automation to deliver what channel leaders need most: the platform, data, and insights to scale partner revenue – with confidence and clarity.

Speaking at the announcement, Anne Lanigan, Divisional Manager for Technology & Services at Enterprise Ireland, said, “Enterprise Ireland has worked closely with Channelscaler since 2011 and we warmly welcome today’s expansion and rebrand announcement. Channelscaler’s success and growth in the space of channel sales highlights Ireland’s position as an international hub for innovation. As part of our new five-year strategy, Enterprise Ireland’s ambition is to accelerate sustainable Irish business with globally focused businesses like Channelscaler becoming the primary driver of the economy. Enterprise Ireland looks forward to working with the team to continue to support their growth ambitions as they expand their customer base internationally whilst continuing to create jobs here in Galway.”

In 2024, global trade reached an all-time high of $33 trillion, with indirect revenue accounting for greater than 70% of all purchases according to Canalys. Recognizing this immense and growing opportunity, Channelscaler, backed by Invictus Growth Partners, is dedicated to empowering companies that sell to, through, and with partners to take advantage of this opportunity. Creating a frictionless channel and streamlining partner program delivery enables businesses to thrive in this ecosystem driven economy.

“This is a better-together combination, creating a robust partner management platform that scales from small SaaS companies to Fortune 100 global powerhouses.  With US$7.46 billion in channel software revenue in 2024, and a projected US$13.48 billion by 2028, this growth highlights the crucial role of automation and data-driven decision-making in partnership success.” – Jay McBain, Chief Analyst – Channels, Partnerships & Ecosystems, Canalys

Channelscaler creates competitive advantage for its customers across every stage of the partner lifecycle. It delivers measurable ROI by simplifying partner operations, accelerating indirect revenue and reducing cost of channel sales.

“We drove the consolidation of Allbound and Channel Mechanics because we saw immense potential in their combined strengths to set the standard for excellence in channel sales software. This strategic rebrand to Channelscaler aligns with the company’s mission to power partnerships and deliver ROI for our customers” said John DeLoche, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Invictus Growth Partners.

Ends

For more information about Channelscaler, the most comprehensive platform for PRM and partner program automation on the market, visit https://channelscaler.com/.

What Every Homeowner Should Know About Storm Drain Blockages

Storm drain blockages can lead to serious property damage and health hazards, making them a significant concern for any homeowner. Proper maintenance of these drains is essential to prevent flooding and to keep the water flow efficient. Understanding the causes, prevention methods, and solutions for blockages can help homeowners maintain their properties and minimize risks.

Understanding Storm Drain Blockages

Storm drains are designed to manage excess rainwater, channeling it away from roads and other areas. Blockages can occur due to various reasons, including debris accumulation, sediment build-up, and organic materials. 

Often, leaves, trash, and other debris find their way into these drainage systems, creating obstacles that impede the smooth flow of water. Recognizing the causes of blockages is crucial for effective prevention. Common types of debris that lead to storm drain blockages include sticks, leaves, and various litter that wash into the drains during heavy rainfall. These materials, combined with dirt and sediment, can build up over time, creating significant clogs. In urban areas, infrastructure can be particularly strained during heavy rain periods, leading to overflows and localized flooding. 

Rely on qualified locals for skilled assistance. If you’re facing problems like these, several services offer reliable solutions. Whether you need Septic Tank Cleaning Miami Septic Tank Cleaning Miami Shores Septic Tank Cleaning Coral Gables, or anywhere else local to you, finding the right professionals can ensure that your storm drains are clear and functioning well. Clogged storm drains cause surface flooding and can damage landscaping, foundations, and driveways. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding costly repairs and health hazards associated with stagnant water.

Preventing Blockages

Preventing storm drain blockages requires proactive measures by homeowners and local communities. Regular maintenance is key. This might include clearing leaves, debris, and other obstructions from drains and gutters during seasonal changes. 

Homeowners should be vigilant after storms to inspect drains and ensure they are free from materials that can cause blockages. Communities can play a significant role in prevention by organizing clean-up events or awareness campaigns on keeping drains clear. 

Educating residents about the importance of not littering and understanding the impact of stormwater management helps foster a community-wide approach to maintaining the drainage systems. Collaborations between local governments and communities lead to better infrastructure and effective waste management programs.

The Role of Infrastructure

The design and condition of stormwater infrastructure are critical in preventing blockages. Older systems may not adequately handle current water flow demands, often leading to overwhelmed drains. Maintaining these systems through regular inspections and timely repairs is essential for effective stormwater management. 

In areas where the infrastructure is aging, upgrades may be necessary to accommodate increased rainfall and urban development. Local governments must invest in modernizing stormwater systems to enhance their efficiency, which can mitigate risks associated with blockages and flooding.

Poorly maintained infrastructure can contribute to erosion, road damage, and contamination of local waterways. When systems fail, stormwater may carry pollutants directly into rivers and oceans, harming ecosystems. Public awareness and community involvement play a role in advocating for better infrastructure funding and maintenance. Collaboration between municipalities and residents ensures that drainage systems remain functional and resilient.

Signs of Blocked Drains

Homeowners need to be aware of the signs that indicate a storm drain is blocked. Some common indicators include stagnant water in nearby areas, unpleasant odors emanating from drainage sites, and unexpected water pooling during rain showers. Catching these warning signs early can save considerable effort and resources in the long run. 

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to act quickly. Failing to address blockage can lead to serious flooding, potential property damage, and increased repair costs. Timely interventions will often make a significant difference in preventing larger issues down the road.

Other symptoms may include slow-draining water in sinks, gurgling sounds from pipes, or water backing up in toilets or tubs. Vegetation overgrowth near storm drains can signal excess moisture and hidden clogs. In some cases, pests may be attracted to the stagnant water, creating an additional nuisance. Regularly checking drainage grates and surrounding areas for debris buildup can help prevent blockages from developing.

 

Understanding Local Regulations

Each locality can have different regulations regarding stormwater management and drain maintenance. Homeowners must be informed of their responsibilities and any applicable regulations to avoid potential penalties. 

This includes understanding what materials are permitted in drains and the consequences of non-compliance. Local governments often provide resources and guidelines to help homeowners navigate stormwater management practices. Familiarity with these regulations can help reduce the risk of blockages and associated issues, contributing to safer community living. 

Understanding the intricacies of storm drain maintenance can help minimize risks associated with blockages. By staying vigilant, regularly maintaining drains, and seeking professional help when necessary, homeowners can protect both their properties and community members from the adverse effects of flooding and drainage issues.

CCI Global Expands European Operations at Platform94, Galway

Just six months after opening its first European base at Platform94 in Galway, global customer engagement leader CCI Global have announced a major expansion, moving from a 3-desk startup space into a 30-person office unit. The new office space will provide the capacity needed to support CCI’s ambitious growth plans in the region, with room to scale their team steadily over the coming months.

CCI Global operates across key African markets including Kenya, Ghana, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Egypt and South Africa, with Botswana launching soon. With over 15,000 employees across 15 sites on the continent, the company’s expansion into Galway marks a strategic step in building distributed global tech hubs. Galway’s vibrant talent pool, innovation-driven culture, and strong connectivity make it an ideal European base to complement CCI’s growing African operations.

The expansion was officially announced at a private event today at Platform94, with speakers including Mervyn Pretorius, Group CTO and CCI Ireland Lead and Marie Donnellan, CEO of Platform94. The event was also attended by IDA Ireland.

Martin Roe, Group CEO of CCI Global commented: “This strategic move has been thoughtfully planned and is a key step in our global growth. We chose Ireland as the home of our IT Hub because of its strong reputation for tech talent and the incredible support from the government and local ecosystem. We’re excited to be expanding into a larger space in Galway, strengthening our IT capabilities, and creating more high-quality jobs here in Ireland.”

Mervyn Pretorius, Group CTO and Ireland Lead, added: “Establishing our European base at Platform94 is a strategic move for CCI as we continue to grow our global delivery capability. The team here is already contributing to key areas of our technology and client support operations, and this expansion positions us to deliver even more value to our partners worldwide.”

Marie Donnellan, CEO of Platform94, welcomed the news:
“The speed of CCI’s growth speaks not only to the strength of the local ecosystem for ambitious global tech businesses, but also to the calibre of the team they’ve built here in Galway. We’re proud to support them on this journey and excited to see what’s next as they scale their European presence from their base here at Platform94.”

Denis Curran, Head of Emerging Business at IDA Ireland said: “CCI Global’s expansion in Galway is a strong endorsement of Ireland’s position as a strategic location for ambitious, growth-focused companies. Our pro-business environment, combined with access to skilled talent and a supportive innovation ecosystem, continues to attract firms from across the globe”

This expansion marks a significant milestone for CCI Global. Galway’s rich talent base and dynamic innovation ecosystem have positioned it as a cornerstone of CCI’s global growth strategy.