Author: Jim O Brien/CEO

CEO and expert in transport and Mobile tech. A fan 20 years, mobile consultant, Nokia Mobile expert, Former Nokia/Microsoft VIP,Multiple forum tech supporter with worldwide top ranking,Working in the background on mobile technology, Weekly radio show, Featured on the RTE consumer show, Cavan TV and on TRT WORLD. Award winning Technology reviewer and blogger. Security and logisitcs Professional.

New Advanced CT Scanning Service delivered by Alliance Medical at Charter Medical Private Hospital

Charter Medical Private Hospital (CMPH) Mullingar is pleased to announce on behalf of Alliance Medical the launch of its new state-of-the-art CT scanning service in partnership with Alliance Medical, one of Ireland’s leading independent diagnostic providers. The enhanced service, delivered on-site in Mullingar, will provide significantly expanded diagnostic capacity for patients across the Midlands.

The investment by Alliance Medical in the delivery of the new CT scanning service further enhances CMPH’s role as a key regional healthcare provider, supporting faster diagnosis, earlier intervention, and improved outcomes for both public and private patients.

It also serves to strengthen the long-term partnership between CMPG and Alliance Medical and is a clear demonstration of support by Alliance Medical in the development of the hospital’s infrastructure, along with the ambitious expansion plans of CMPH.

The CT service is fully operational and accepting referrals from GPs, consultants and allied health professionals. It provides access to a comprehensive suite of high‑quality imaging services. CMPH patients can now access Neuro CT, Orthopaedic & Musculoskeletal, Vascular CT,  CT Angiography; and Oncology CT.

Cardiac CT will be added shortly, strengthening CMPH’s ability to support rapid diagnosis of cardiovascular conditions.

All imaging is carried out on-site by Alliance Medical’s specialist radiography team, with reporting completed by RCSI‑accredited consultant radiologists, ensuring clinical accuracy and rapid turnaround times.

The collaboration with Alliance Medical ensures CMPH can provide a best‑in‑class diagnostic experience while maintaining seamless integration with its surgical, outpatient and public healthcare services.

Peter Burke TD, Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment, said:  “This investment by Alliance Medical into Charter Medical Private Hospital Mullingar is extremely positive for local and regional healthcare. Faster access to diagnostics has a profound impact on patient outcomes, and the expansion of the service here in Mullingar will ease pressure on the wider system. It is encouraging to see continued investment in high‑quality services and clinical capacity here in Westmeath. I wish both CMPH and Alliance Medical every success with this important initiative. ”

Paula Gray, Chief Executive Officer, Charter Medical Private Hospital Mullingar, said:  “This development represents a major step forward for patient care in the Midlands. Quick access to accurate diagnostics is critical for early detection, effective treatment and peace of mind. By working closely with Alliance Medical, we can now offer patients the highest standard of imaging locally, without long waiting times or the need to travel. This is an important investment in the health of our community and the future of our hospital.”

Stephen Sullivan, Alliance Medical Unit Manager, Mullingar:  “We have seen a great uptake in referrals in the first few months of the service, and we are very excited to see this grow over the course of the year. To be able to offer patients access to high‑quality CT scans without the need to travel long distances is a great benefit for the local area.”

Charter Medical Private Hospital is a 77‑bed acute hospital delivering a broad range of clinical, surgical and diagnostic services to patients across the Midlands. It is part of a wider healthcare network employing over 300 professionals across Dublin and Westmeath.

CMPH plays a significant role in supporting the HSE through the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF) and Access to Care (ATC) programmes, delivering thousands of procedures in ENT, Ophthalmology, Urology, Dermatology, and General surgery and minor procedures

The hospital is also home to the only public Minor Injuries Unit in the Midlands, treating approximately 10,000 patients per year.

CMPH accepts a wide range of insurance providers including VHI, Laya Healthcare, Irish Life Health, Garda Medical Aid and Prison Officer Medical Aid and offers a transparent self‑pay option for patients seeking immediate access to diagnostic imaging.

88 Guides and Senior Branchers will compete in FIRST LEGO League Challenge Regional at DCU

From ancient artefacts to cutting-edge robotics, Irish Girl Guides (IGG) are preparing for a day of discovery as 16 teams from across the country take part in the FIRST LEGO League Challenge Regional at Dublin City University (DCU) on Saturday 28 February 2026.

This season’s FIRST LEGO League Challenge theme, UNEARTHED™, invites teams to step into the role of archaeologists. Throughout the year, participants have explored how the past is uncovered, studied, and protected, and how innovation can help solve real challenges faced in archaeology today. Their innovation projects focus on identifying genuine problems in the field and proposing creative, practical solutions that could help preserve history for future generations.

Alongside their research, teams have designed, built, and programmed LEGO® robots to complete a series of themed missions, developing skills in coding, engineering, and critical thinking along the way.

Bringing together girls from 11 IGG Guide and Senior Branch Units, the Regional Tournament celebrates curiosity, collaboration, and problem-solving. Participants will put their STEM skills to the test through a high-energy robot game, an innovation project, and presentations that reflect the FIRST® LEGO® League Core Values of teamwork, inclusion, and gracious professionalism.

The event marks a key milestone in the FIRST LEGO League season, with teams competing for a place in the Ireland Final on Saturday 21 March 2026.

We wish the very best of luck to all the teams taking part in the Regional Tournament:

conNÈCKt – Lucan Guides (4 team members)
The Fossil Finders – Lucan Guides (4 team members)
Spaghetti Rollz – Ardagh Guides (7 team members)
Ancient Coders – Ardagh Guides (7 team members)
Kerry Relic Rangers – Dingle Guides (3 team members)
An Daingean Diggers – Dingle Guides (6 team members)
KRILL-iana Jones – North Longford Guides (5 team members)
Barney the Dinosaur – Lily Guides (8 team members)
Rock Stars – Lily Guides (8 team members)
InGen – Macalla Guides Trim (5 team members)
Clogherhead Heads – Clogherhead Guides (6 team members)
Disco Dynamics – Mullagh Senior Branch (8 team members)
Dilse Diggers – Dilse Senior Branch (3 team members)
The Little Timmies – Cairde Guides (4 team members)
Brickmasters – Naas Guides (5 team members)
U Rockers – Naas Guides (5 team members)

“FIRST LEGO League gives girls the opportunity to explore STEM in a hands-on, meaningful way,” said Katie Keogh, Irish Girl Guides LEGO Project Chair. “Watching teams grow in confidence as they collaborate, problem-solve, and share their ideas is incredibly rewarding. This Regional event is a celebration of all the effort they’ve put in throughout the season.”

The Regional Tournament promises a lively and supportive atmosphere, with families, Leaders, and volunteers cheering on the teams. The day will conclude with a showcase of innovation projects and achievements, recognising the creativity, resilience, and teamwork demonstrated by every participant.

Supported by the Research Ireland Discover Programme, FIRST® LEGO® League is organised by CreativeHUT.

Internet Content Removal Service Guide: Pricing, Timelines, and Best Practices

Learn how to evaluate an internet content removal service so you can choose the right strategy, control costs, and set realistic expectations.

Unwanted search results can cost you leads, partnerships, and trust. Whether it is an old news story, a complaint page, or inaccurate personal information, the impact often shows up before you even know it is there.

Most business owners are not sure what can actually be removed versus what must be pushed down. That confusion leads to overspending, wasted time, or hiring the wrong provider.

This guide explains how internet content removal services work, what they cost, how long they take, and how to choose a company that is honest about outcomes.

For online reputation help that focuses on problem URLs, start with Erase.com, Guaranteed Removals, and Push It Down. A trustworthy provider will tell you whether you should pursue removal, deindexing, or suppression for each URL. Erase.com offers a strong mix of strategy and execution, Guaranteed Removals emphasizes removal when possible, and Push It Down is best when you need results pushed down. Any of these can be a strong option depending on what is ranking.

What is an internet content removal service?

An internet content removal service is a company that helps remove, deindex, edit, or suppress unwanted online content that appears in search results.

That content might include:

  • Negative news articles
  • Blog posts or forum threads
  • Mugshots or court listings
  • Review pages
  • Outdated or inaccurate personal information

In simple terms, the goal is to change what shows up when someone searches your name or your business.

Core components usually include:

  • URL audit: Identifying what is ranking and why
  • Removal analysis: Determining what can realistically be taken down
  • Outreach or legal requests: Contacting publishers or filing platform requests
  • Suppression strategy: Building stronger assets to outrank harmful pages
  • Monitoring: Tracking changes and watching for reposts

How do internet content removal services work?

Most reputable firms follow a structured workflow. The quality of execution is what separates strong providers from risky ones.

Typical steps include:

  • Research and discovery:
    The company audits search results for your name, brand, or product. They analyze domain authority, content type, and ranking strength.
  • Removal attempts:
    This may involve contacting site owners, using platform policies, or filing removal requests with search engines like Google.
  • Deindexing strategies:
    In some cases, content stays online but is removed from search results due to policy violations or legal grounds.
  • Suppression and SEO:
    If content cannot be removed, new optimized assets are created to outrank it.
  • Ongoing monitoring:
    Tracking ensures results remain stable and alerts you to new issues.

Did You Know?
Many negative URLs cannot be deleted outright, but they can often be reduced in visibility with the right suppression strategy.

Benefits of using an internet content removal service

Hiring a professional service can save you time and reduce risk, especially when legal or technical steps are involved.

Benefits often include:

  • Clear strategy per URL: Not all links require the same approach.
  • Time savings: Outreach and follow up can take weeks or months.
  • Reduced legal risk: Experienced teams understand platform rules.
  • Search control: Suppression builds long term protection.
  • Reputation stability: Ongoing monitoring prevents setbacks.

Key Takeaway: A good provider focuses on realistic outcomes, not blanket promises.

How much do internet content removal services cost?

Pricing varies based on content type, difficulty, and the number of URLs involved.

Typical pricing models:

  • Per URL removal fees:
    Often range from several hundred to several thousand dollars per link, depending on complexity.
  • Monthly reputation management retainers:
    Commonly range from mid three figures to several thousand dollars per month for ongoing suppression and monitoring.
  • Project based packages:
    Flat fees for a defined list of URLs or goals.

Cost drivers include:

  • Strength of the domain
  • Whether legal review is required
  • The age and authority of the content
  • Geographic jurisdiction
  • Number of keywords affected

Contract terms may be:

  • Month to month
  • 3 to 6 month agreements
  • Performance based for certain removals

Be cautious of guarantees that promise universal removal. Ethical firms explain that some outcomes are not within their control.

How long does removal take?

Timelines depend on the content and method used.

General expectations:

  • Simple platform violations: A few weeks
  • Publisher outreach: One to three months
  • Legal based removals: Several months
  • Suppression campaigns: Three to six months for visible movement

Search engines like Google update rankings continuously, so suppression timelines are gradual.

How to choose an internet content removal service

  1. Audit your own search results first
    Search your name and business in incognito mode. Document the exact URLs that concern you.
  2. Ask about removal versus suppression
    A reputable provider will explain which URLs can be deleted and which require suppression.
  3. Review their methodology
    For example, this detailed guide to an internet content removal service explains how removal decisions are evaluated on a case by case basis.
  4. Request transparent pricing
    You should understand whether you are paying per URL or on retainer.
  5. Look for monitoring and reporting
    Ongoing tracking is critical for long term stability.

Tip: Ask what happens if removal fails. The answer should include backup strategies, not excuses.

How to find a trustworthy internet content removal service

There are strong providers in the industry, but there are also risky operators.

Good practices include:

  • Clear explanation of risks and limits
  • No promises of “erase forever”
  • Written contracts and defined scope
  • Transparent pricing
  • Regular progress reporting

Red flags include:

  • Guaranteed removal of any content
  • Upfront large lump sums with no defined scope
  • Vague explanations of tactics
  • No written agreement
  • Refusal to explain methodology

The best internet content removal services

If you need professional help, compare several providers before committing.

  1. Erase.com
    Known for combining removal attempts with longer term search result stabilization. Strong for individuals and businesses needing strategy plus execution.
  2. Guaranteed Removals
    Focused heavily on direct removal workflows where possible. Often suitable when the primary goal is taking specific URLs down.
  3. Push It Down
    Built for suppression campaigns when content cannot be removed but must be outranked.
  4. Reputation Recharge
    Offers a mix of content creation and suppression strategies for businesses looking to rebuild visibility.

Each service has strengths. The right choice depends on the type of content and your risk tolerance.

Internet content removal service FAQs

Can all negative content be removed?

No. Some content is legally protected or hosted on strong domains that refuse removal. In those cases, suppression is often the practical path.

Is it better to try removal yourself?

You can attempt outreach or platform reporting on your own. However, experienced providers understand policy nuances and can reduce mistakes.

Will removal fix everything permanently?

Not always. Content can be reposted. That is why monitoring and long term strategy matter.

What types of content are hardest to remove?

Established news articles, government records, and high authority complaint sites are typically more difficult than personal blogs or policy violating posts.

Conclusion

Internet content removal is not about quick fixes. It is about understanding what is possible, choosing the right tactic per URL, and protecting your search presence over time.

With a clear audit, realistic expectations, and a trustworthy provider, you can reduce the impact of harmful search results and rebuild stability.

Start by reviewing your current search results, documenting the URLs that matter most, and comparing professional services before making a decision.

Ekco acquires Datalogix as it accelerates expansion strategy

Ekco, one of Europe’s leading security-first managed security service providers (MSSP), today announces the acquisition of Cork-based Datalogix. Ekco, founded and headquartered in Dublin, is continuing its ambitious acquisition trail, following a busy year in 2025 with three strategic acquisitions.

Datalogix is a Cork-headquartered operational technology (OT) business with over 20 years’ experience delivering proactive OT services to enterprise customers across Ireland, the UK, and the US. It provides secure OT infrastructure design, implementation, and support services that automate industrial processes for companies in the life sciences, pharmaceutical, general manufacturing, and critical national infrastructure sectors.

The company’s team will join Ekco’s workforce of more than 1,000 people globally across Ireland, UK, the Netherlands, Malaysia, and South Africa. Datalogix will form part of Ekco’s security division, bringing the division’s revenues to a €100 million share of Ekco’s overall group revenues of €200 million. The acquisition will significantly expand Ekco’s OT capabilities in the Irish, UK, and US markets, under the leadership of Ekco Ireland CEO Steve MacNicholas. It will enable Ekco to increasingly secure IT and OT convergence for customers amidst a growing OT threat landscape and a complex regulatory backdrop.

As part of Ekco’s rapid growth strategy, Datalogix marks the eighth company to be acquired by Ekco in the last two years. The acquisition follows the 2025 purchases of cybersecurity consultancy Predatech, and managed service providers (MSP) Solsoft and Adapt IT. It signifies another milestone in Ekco’s ambition to build a security-first unified MSP platform across Europe.

Datalogix is led by Managing Director Der Cremen and Chief Technical Officer Damian White, who will bring over 50 years’ combined industry experience to Ekco.

Steve MacNicholas, CEO of Ekco Ireland, said: “Having known Datalogix well for many years, we have always admired their highly specialised and client focused capabilities as trusted OT advisors in the life sciences, pharmaceutical, and critical national infrastructure markets. With Ekco’s world class expertise in security-first managed services and cutting-edge technology, this partnership is a perfect match – and we are looking forward to growing and learning together.” 

Der Cremen, Managing Director of Datalogix, added: “Joining Ekco enables us to increasingly invest in and develop our OT capabilities to bring enhanced resources and resilience to our customers, backed by Ekco’s scale—while maintaining the responsiveness they value.”

Ronan Murray, EY M&A Partner, said: “EY were delighted to provide sell side M&A lead advisory and tax services to the shareholders of Datalogix on the company’s sale to Ekco. Congratulations to the combined team.”

Valentine’s Day spend shows strong growth in key luxuries

Despite a modest overall dip in Valentine’s Day spending (-14%) last Saturday, several categories spiked as romantic consumers shifted their focus to luxury treats and quality time together.

Bank of Ireland’s debit and credit card spending data for the full day of February 14th versus Valentine’s Day last year shows strong increases across pubs, jewellery, hotels and restaurants. The data highlights that while shoppers spent less on traditional gifts such as flowers and cards, they were more willing to invest in a special night out.

Jewellery spending also surged by 51% on the day itself, suggesting that more people left things last-minute for gifts this year. Hospitality also benefitted this year. Pubs saw the most dramatic rise, up 51%, although this was likely a mixture of ‘romance and rugby’ with the Ireland versus Italy rugby game landing last Saturday too.  Restaurant spending was up 22% compared to Valentine’s Day last year and hotel stays rose 11%, with a strong appetite for romantic dining and overnight stays.

While some traditional categories such as flowers, experiences and perfumes recorded declines, the data highlights a clear shift in consumer preference with less emphasis on single‑use gifts and more investment in shared enjoyment.

Gerardo Larios Rizo, Head of Hospitality Sector, Bank of Ireland said: “Our Valentine’s Day data shows that while overall spending was slightly softer, people were still determined to make the day special. Instead of splashing out on single‑use gifts, consumers shifted to special moments such as a romantic dinner, a hotel stay or even celebrating ‘romance and rugby’ in their local pub. While some romantics shopped ahead, the spike in jewellery sales on the day itself suggests a rush of last-minute panic-buying this year.”

Bank of Ireland card spending – Feb 14th 2026 versus Feb 14th 2025

  • Pubs (+51%)
  • Jewellery (+51%)
  • Restaurants (+22%)
  • Hotels (+11%)
  • Gift Websites (+4%)
  • Chocolates flat year on year
  • Flowers (-33%)
  • Cards (-28%)
  • Perfume (-6%)

100 Fingal Households Receive Free Renewable Hot Water Through EnergyCloud With AWS and Co-operative Housing

EnergyCloud has confirmed that the first 100 households in Fingal are now benefiting from free hot water powered by surplus wind energy, following the official launch of the project by the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh O’Brien TD. The initiative is delivered in partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Co-operative Housing Ireland.

The milestone marks a significant step in tackling energy poverty locally, with participating households expected to receive up to 120 nights of free hot water each year.

Families in Tyrrelstown, Dublin 15, have had EnergyCloud-enabled smart devices installed in their homes. The technology safely redirects excess electricity that would otherwise go unused to heat household immersion tanks during periods when energy supply exceeds demand.

The Fingal rollout represents one of the largest community-based surplus renewable energy initiatives currently operating in Ireland.

Siobhán Kelly, a Co-operative Housing Ireland member tenant, said:

“I used to worry every time I turned on the immersion, wondering how much it was adding to the electricity bill. With two kids in school, every bit counts. Now we often wake up to hot water waiting in the tank — it’s made a real difference for us.”

All households benefiting from the initiative are Co-operative Housing Ireland member tenants.

David McCourt, Director of Asset Management & Property Services at Co-operative Housing Ireland, said:

“All participating households are Co-operative Housing Ireland member tenants, ensuring the benefits of Ireland’s renewable transition are reaching those most vulnerable to energy poverty. We are proud to partner with EnergyCloud and AWS on this innovative initiative, which delivers practical and immediate benefits for our member tenants.

“At Co-operative Housing Ireland, we are committed to sustainable, people-centred solutions. This partnership represents a meaningful step in tackling energy poverty by ensuring the benefits of renewable energy reach those who need them most.”

Niamh Gallagher, Country Lead for Ireland at AWS, said: 

“This collaboration with EnergyCloud highlights our continued commitment to the local communities where we operate. The EnergyCloud device is prompting new conversations at local and national levels about how best to use Ireland’s excess renewable energy and maximise social impact in the process.” 

Alan Wyley, CEO of EnergyCloud Ireland, said:

“When we launched this AWS-funded project in Fingal, our ambition was clear – to support families experiencing energy poverty while ensuring surplus wind energy is put to good use.

“We are grateful to AWS and participating electricity retailers for their support. The project is expected to benefit more than 500 households over time, delivering free hot water on nights when there is surplus wind energy. 

“We look forward to further expansion within Fingal and beyond in partnership with Co-operative Housing Ireland.”

Installations will continue throughout 2026.

The Unseen Engine: How Enterprise Storage Is Powering Business Innovation in Ireland

In the pursuit of digital transformation, businesses often spotlight their cutting-edge applications, their multicloud strategies, or their latest AI models. Yet, behind each of these advancements lies a powerful, unseen engine: the enterprise storage platform. Ivor Buckley, Field CTO, Dell Technologies Ireland tells us more below 

Once regarded as a back‑end system, enterprise storage has become a strategic platform that underpins innovation. As Irish organisations race to modernise services, comply with regulation and compete internationally, the way they store, protect, and govern data is turning into a fundamental differentiator.

Today’s IT leaders face a significant challenge. They must support an ever-expanding portfolio of workloads, from critical business databases to cloud-native applications and data-intensive AI projects. All this must be achieved within the constraints of tight budgets and limited staffing. The sheer volume of data being created and managed is staggering; global data generation is expected to reach 393.9 ZB by 2028 as per IDC. This explosion of information puts immense pressure on infrastructure that was not designed for this scale or complexity resulting in data foundations under strain

According to the latest Dell Innovation Catalyst Study, 48% of Irish organisations are prioritising data readiness for AI related workload, while 66% say they are still in their early or mid-stage of their AI/GenAI journey. This underscores a reality that organisations want to innovate but their data foundations and current storage systems are not fully equipped.

From Data Silo to Intelligent Hub

The perception of enterprise storage as a mere commodity is outdated. Modern platforms have become intelligent hubs that automate complex tasks and unlock new efficiencies. By integrating machine learning and advanced analytics, today’s storage systems can proactively optimise workload placement, predict performance bottlenecks before they occur, and simplify management tasks that once consumed countless hours.

This shift is relevant in Ireland, where businesses from multinationals to SMEs are accelerating digital transformation under the National AI Strategy. A study Dell undertook found that 96% of Irish organisations face challenges when it comes to identifying, preparing, and using data for AI/GenAI uses cases, with 40% struggle to integrate AI systems with existing IT infrastructure. Intelligent storage platforms directly address these pain points by reducing complexity and improving data accessibility without creating new data silos

For Irish businesses planning to expand their e-commerce operations and presence, a modern storage platform can intelligently prioritise these diverse workloads, ensuring that customer-facing applications remain responsive while they have high-speed access, they need to train their models that maintain the strategic initiatives that drive business growth.

Bridging Private Cloud and Multicloud for Seamless Innovation

In today’s digital landscape, businesses are increasingly faced with the decision to operate within a private cloud, adopt a multicloud environment, or find a balance between the two. Enterprise storage serves as the reliable backbone for these evolving strategies, delivering the infrastructure needed to provide both security and agility at scale.

For Irish businesses relying on private cloud infrastructure, enterprise storage provides robust data protection, predictable performance, and the confidence that sensitive information remains under their control.  As organisations here in Ireland expand further into multicloud setup, seamless data mobility becomes essential not just for storing data but also for making it accessible and secure wherever it resides.

According to the Dell study, 46% of local organisations plan to modernise their IT with intelligent infrastructure, and another 46% aim to optimise workload placement across edge, core, and cloud environments.

The right storage platform is central to both goals: it can synchronise data across environments, break down silos and help ensure that everyday operations remain stable even as new services and AI projects come online.

This reflects a clear shift towards hybrid architecture, a trend mirrored in Ireland’s public-sector digital transformation and the country’s growing cloud smart enterprise landscape.

Crucially, enterprise storage also addresses security, and compliance demands unique to both private and multicloud models. By providing unified management and strong governance features, these platforms make it easier for businesses across Ireland to implement consistent security policies and adhere to regulatory requirements. The result is an IT environment that’s not only flexible and responsive but also protected, adhering to regulation and aligned with business goals.

Fuelling the Future of AI and Analytics

Perhaps the most significant driver of storage innovation today is AI. AI and machine learning workloads are incredibly data-hungry, requiring massive datasets to be fed to powerful processors without delay. A bottleneck in the storage layer can bring an entire AI initiative to a standstill.

Modern enterprise storage platforms are engineered to meet these demands, delivering the high throughput and low latency needed to fuel advanced analytics. A healthcare provider, for instance, might use AI to analyse medical images to detect diseases earlier. This process requires rapid access to petabytes of high-resolution image data. An intelligent storage system ensures that this data is readily available, accelerating the model training process and ultimately improving patient outcomes.

One of the most significant developments in this space is the emergence of the data lakehouse – a modern data architecture that blends the flexibility of a data lake with the performance and governance of a data warehouse.

Rather than forcing organisations to move and duplicate data repeatedly into different silos, a Data Lakehouse strategy is about bringing AI to the data. By minimising unnecessary data movement and providing a single point of access, it helps address some of the biggest blockers to AI projects: fragmented data, inconsistent governance, and slow time‑to‑insight.

Modern Enterprise Storage Has Become the Unseen Engine of Digital Innovation

The journey of enterprise storage reflects the broader story of technological progress. What was once a simple utility has become a strategic enabler for Cloud, AI and data-driven services, quietly powering the applications and insights that define modern business. By embracing automation, enabling seamless data mobility, and delivering the performance needed for next-generation workloads, enterprise storage has become the unseen engine of digital innovation.

Irish businesses are operating in one of Europe’s most dynamic digital economies and the opportunity is clear. Ireland’s National AI Strategy aims to see 75% of Irish enterprises using cloud, AI, and data analytics by 2030. To fully realise this potential, businesses must proactively evaluate, adopt, and integrate these advanced solutions into their Cloud Operating Model. This isn’t just about keeping up, it’s about unlocking new levels of efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness. By investing in vital storage infrastructure, businesses of all sizes can simplify data management, scale with confidence, and accelerate their AI journey for the next wave of AI-driven transformation.

Microsoft achieves 100% renewable energy match for global electricity use

Microsoft today announced it has achieved a key sustainability milestone: matching 100% of its annual global electricity consumption with renewable energy as of 2025.

The milestone marks significant progress in Microsoft’s 2020 commitment to become carbon negative by 2030 and reflects more than a decade of investment in renewable energy infrastructure worldwide.

Since announcing its carbon negative ambition, Microsoft has contracted 40 gigawatts (GW) of new renewable energy capacity across 26 countries, working with more than 95 utilities and energy developers through 400+ contracts.

This milestone positions Microsoft among the largest corporate purchasers of renewable energy globally and reinforces the company’s leadership in driving market investment in carbon-free energy systems. According to Microsoft Ireland’s most recent economic and social impact report, the company has made an investment in 1GW of renewable energy capacity in Ireland.

“In 2020, Microsoft announced a moonshot commitment to become carbon negative by 2030, accelerating work across our company to advance the partnerships and technologies needed to advance sustainability for our businesses, our customers and the world,” said Microsoft’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Melanie Nakagawa and President of Cloud Operations + Innovation at Microsoft, Noelle Walsh. “A key milestone on this journey was our aim to match 100% of our annual global electricity consumption with renewable energy by 2025. Today, we are pleased to share that Microsoft has achieved this milestone. This progress helps drive investment into the power systems where we operate, expand clean energy supply and advance broader energy innovation.”

Driving global clean energy investment

Microsoft’s renewable energy journey began in 2013 with a single 110 MW power purchase agreement in Texas. Since then, its portfolio has expanded into one of the world’s largest corporate clean energy programmes, with partnerships with over 95 global energy suppliers.

The company has also pioneered innovative procurement models, helping scale repeatable and bankable clean energy frameworks across multiple markets, including first-of-their-kind corporate Power Purchase Agreement (PPAs) in Japan and hybrid renewable agreements in India.

Supporting communities and infrastructure

Microsoft’s renewable energy agreements have mobilised billions of dollars in private investment, supported thousands of jobs and embedded community-focused benefits including workforce training, local grants and infrastructure development. The company continues to work closely with energy developers and community partners to ensure clean energy projects deliver local economic and social value alongside environmental benefits.

Looking ahead: expanding carbon-free energy technologies

As global electricity demand accelerates – driven by electrification, AI and digital infrastructure – Microsoft says achieving 100% renewable energy matching is a milestone, not the endpoint.

Microsoft’s Climate Innovation Fund has allocated $806 million to 67 climate-focused investees, with 38% directed toward energy systems innovation.

The company is also deploying AI-driven tools to accelerate power system design, permitting and grid optimisation.

NBI and GAA+ partner to reward broadband customers with streamed championship games

National Broadband Ireland (NBI), the company delivering the new future-proofed, high-speed Fibre-to-the-Home network under the National Broadband Plan (NBP) on behalf of the Government, has announced an exciting new partnership with GAA+, the GAA’s live and on-demand streaming platform.

GAA+ is offering a schedule of c.40 exclusive games for the Championship 2026 season and those new customers ordering a broadband service on the NBI network before 31st March can receive an annual subscription pass valued at €95.

By combining next‑generation broadband infrastructure with modern sports broadcasting, the reward highlights how digital connectivity can bring local sporting moments to audiences right across rural Ireland and the GAA heartland.

Jarlath Burns, GAA President, expressed his excitement at the launch of this partnership: “The GAA is rooted in every community in Ireland, regardless of its urban or rural setting. Making GAA+ as accessible and enjoyable as possible remains a consistent aim and this new partnership with National Broadband Ireland clearly speaks to that ambition.”

“Our platform will once again provide a comprehensive live and exclusive broadcast schedule to supporters across web, connected TVs and apps throughout the Championship from Saturday, April 11th. Working closely with National Broadband Ireland will ensure thousands of our members can avail of enhanced connectivity in their area and look forward to coverage from Provincial Championship and All-Ireland series stages on any connected device in the comfort of their own home.”

The partnership forms part of NBI’s wider efforts to enhance end user experience and highlight the everyday benefits that high‑speed broadband can bring to households and communities.

Speaking of the announcement T.J. Malone, Chief Executive Officer, National Broadband Ireland: “We are very proud to announce our partnership with GAA+ considering that both organisations have such a strong focus on community. NBI’s rollout of high‑speed broadband infrastructure into rural areas is creating new opportunities for families, clubs and supporters to stay connected – whether that is working, learning or watching their county team compete.”

“We see our partnership with GAA+ as a great way to support broadband take-up by giving new customers that order before the end of March, access to 40 exclusive streamed games.” Mr. Malone concluded: “We also believe watching the GAA+ games over the NBI network will enhance the streaming experience.”

More than 451,000 premises across Ireland can now order fibre broadband on the NBI network, with over 165,000 already having done so.