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.

TV delivers high active engagement, finds research by Amplified Intelligence, RED C, and TAM Ireland

Amplified Intelligence, the most trusted source for accurate attention measurement, has released an in-depth evaluation of attention paid to ads on linear TV and BVOD (broadcast video on demand). Conducted in partnership with Ireland’s premier research consultancy provider, RED C Research, and TAM Ireland — The Irish TV measurement organisation — key results include the finding that 62% of Irish viewers consistently engage with TV ads.

The partnership brings together Amplified Intelligence’s industry-leading AI-powered technology and RED C Research’s unique panel to accurately measure the power of traditional media channels. Quantifying the persistent value of TV advertising, this research provides a vital insight base for brands and agencies aiming to craft high-impact cross-channel campaigns.

Encompassing a 200-strong panel of Irish viewers and 13,000 ad views, the study measured live engagement with creative from three major brands – including AIB and Irish Life — over linear TV, as well BVOD ads served to TV and mobile screens. Using Amplified Intelligence’s smart eye-tracking and gaze detection technology, in-the-moment viewing was meticulously measured to achieve a refined understanding of active, passive, and non-attention. 

 Key takeaways include: 

  • Six in ten viewers are engaged: 

A sizeable 62% of viewers consistently engage with ads at some level; paying either active or passive attention, which is directly related to the quality of content across the TV network. 

  • Advertising on TV increases likelihood to buy by 30%: When advertising on linear TV and BVOD, brands are 30% more likely to be chosen in a purchasing situation. Purchase probability is particularly high in key categories such as finance and healthcare, with each seeing increases of 68% & 21% respectively.

  • Ads captivate attention for longer: Attention duration among viewers exceeds other markets; ranking at 300% higher than global Amplified Intelligence benchmarks for linear TV and BVOD, suggesting a reduced level of attention decay. 

“An accurate understanding of attention is critical to fortifying media and advertising for the future. Our human-centric approach has always been at the forefront of all our research and this partnership with RED C Research and TAM Ireland proves that human behaviour is ever-changing and the only true indicator of the effectiveness of media platforms. We hope that this data will encourage advertisers and agencies to reevaluate their campaign strategies, and also serve as proof of concept that TV is still a valuable sector for ad dollars.” said Dr Karen Nelson-Field, Founder and CEO of Amplified Intelligence. 

Jill McGrath, CEO at TAM Ireland commented: “We wanted to better understand what drives the effectiveness of TV advertising and gain a comprehensive insight that underpins more impactful and cost-efficient campaigns. The results exceeded our expectations and reinforced our belief that Linear TV and BVOD are holding their own in the face of stiff competition from new media.”

Richard Colwell, CEO, RED C Research added: “Our long-standing relationship with Amplified Intelligence already demonstrated the efficiency and effectiveness of measuring true audience behaviour in live environments, with collaborative efforts exploring the impact of social media ads. This research cements the precision and quality of its robust measurement approach, as well as expanding on our previous knowledge base. Looking at TV through a comparable lens, we can now provide insights that allow us to give clients an even better understanding of how their ads perform, at a brand level and across varying platforms.”

Leostream to Expand Remote Desktop Flexibility with Windows 365

Leostream Corporation, creator of the world-leading Leostream® Remote Desktop Access Platform, has announced the full integration of the Leostream Platform with Microsoft Windows 365 to provide enhanced flexibility, scalability, and resilience to organizations incorporating cloud and hybrid cloud infrastructure.

Enterprises that rely on Virtual Desktop Infrastructure contend with a myriad of challenges, including capacity limitations due to space constraints within data centers. With potentially hundreds of thousands of user desktop sessions happening at once, the sheer size of these environments often requires moving workloads to the cloud to accommodate demanding use cases. Cloud deployments also permit new flexibility for instance-size updates and nearly limitless restore points to minimize disruptions, especially in the event of VM failures.

However, cloud and hybrid cloud strategies incur increased complexity as resources, applications, and data must be managed and available across on-premises data centers and multiple cloud platforms. The Leostream Platform alleviates this complexity and enables Windows 365 users to access additional resources hosted on-prem, on Azure, AWS, or other cloud providers, with a consistent and unified experience and state-of-the-art authentication and security.

Key to the Leostream Platform’s ability to streamline remote Windows 365 desktop access in heterogeneous environments is its comprehensive protocol support. This delivers seamless communication between disparate systems, regardless of the underlying hosting platform or supported display protocol.

Additional features and advantages of deploying the Leostream Platform with Windows 365:

– Provides a customizable landing page tailored to individual user profiles and locations for a personalized and intuitive user experience.

– Eliminates conventional password-based authentication with stronger Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) to enhance security while simplifying the user login processes, and integrates with Active Directory Federation Services (ADFS) providers so organizations can easily transition to SAML authentication while maintaining compatibility with the existing authentication framework.

– Enables direct connections to Windows 365 desktops via Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) support and allows the use of cloud-specific display protocols such as NICE DCV and PCoIP for connections to other hosted resources, eliminating incompatibilities that lead to interoperability issues and impede user experience.

– Permits future integration of Windows 365 with other third-party VDI and DaaS Vendors.

“Windows 365 is an essential tool for many organizations, and this integration gives them new options not only for supporting hybrid and remote workforces, but also truly for implementing a multi-cloud or hybrid-cloud strategy alongside their on-premise infrastructure,” said Leostream CEO Karen Gondoly. “The Leostream Platform’s emphasis on access and interoperability of diverse protocols eliminates one of the primary obstacles to transitioning to the cloud by ensuring workers have access to the resources they need and a user experience that won’t hamper their productivity.”

The Leostream Remote Desktop Access Platform for hosted desktops and workstations offers a comprehensive solution for remote access to maintain productivity, control costs, and ensure security with strict authentication and authorization built on zero-trust concepts. Its connection management system eliminates clunky corporate VPNs with an ultra-efficient gateway that gives users access to only the specific resources they have permission to use, automatically, regardless of their location or device. The Leostream Platform shines even in environments that rely on complex, specialty applications like energy and science; large files such as media and entertainment; real-time performance like financial services; and bulletproof network security like government and defense.

Leading supplier of IT solutions for public transport INIT to expand in Maynooth

INIT, worldwide leading supplier of integrated planning, dispatching, telematics and ticketing systems for buses and trains, have announced that they will increase their capacity in Maynooth, Co. Kildare.

Highly skilled software developers create applications for public transport projects around the world, including for ticketing and real-time passenger information systems for transport operators and authorities in cities including Honolulu, San Diego, Los Angeles, Seattle, Atlanta, Nottingham, Dublin, Hamburg, and New Zealand. INIT opened its first Irish office in 2018, their first software development centre outside Germany and employ 25 people. From today, the office capacity has increased with space to accommodate up to 60 employees and INIT is on the lookout for further talented Java and .Net cloud software engineers to continue their rapid growth. INIT is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland.

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke TD said: “I very much welcome INIT’s announcement that they will increase the number of employees to 60 as part of an expansion at their Maynooth facility. Since their establishment in Ireland in 2018, INIT have been providing vital IT solutions for public transport, and it is great to see them continue to thrive and grow in Kildare. The expansion will provide fantastic employment opportunities in the IT sector. Great news for INIT, Kildare and the wider region, I wish them all the best with this new expansion.”

Matthias Kühn, INIT COO, underlines the importance of INIT’s Ireland branch: “In just over five years, our subsidiary in Ireland has exceeded expectations. We see this as confirmation that Maynooth is the right place to develop our innovative solutions for public transport. Doubling the staff and more than doubling their office capacity in Ireland will help INIT pave the way for continued success in the future. We are looking forward to receiving applications from qualified specialists for our development centre.”

Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland said: ‘’INIT’s plans to grow to up to 60 employees in their Maynooth office is great news for the region and indeed Ireland’s technology sector. IDA is very proud of Ireland’s reputation as a hub for technology. This expansion is a testament to the talent and skills that companies can find in Ireland and in Maynooth. ‘’

Even before establishing its subsidiary, INIT had strong ties with Ireland, including Dublin Bus (Bus Átha Cliath). In 2010, INIT implemented the first fleet management and real-time passenger information platform for the Greater Dublin Area.

Iconic Belfast and Dublin venues to host first ever Transatlantic Fintech Exchange

The Fintech Corridor and the American Transaction Processors Coalition (ATPC), are set to welcome around 100 delegates from across the globe to the first ever Transatlantic Fintech Exchange in iconic venues across Belfast and Dublin, on May 13-16, 2024.

Venues including the Guinness Storehouse, Belfast City Hall and Killeavy Castle will serve as historic backdrops for the conference.

It will see senior leaders from the finance and technology sector come together with government development agencies to drive collaboration across the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and the US, share best practice and increase investment in the island of Ireland’s fintech industry.

Headline speakers include:

  • Karen O’Leary, Head of Payments and Securities at Central Bank of Ireland
  • Neale Richmond TD, Minister of State with responsibility for Financial Services, Credit Unions and Insurance
  • Conor Murphy MLA, Economy Minister
  • Paul O’Hare, Tech & Finance Lead, Google
  • Karl Hanlon, Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), FinTrU
  • Margaret Hearty, CEO, InterTradeIreland
  • Kieran Donoghue, CEO, Invest NI
  • Maeve Monaghan, CEO, NOW Group
  • Alison Donnelly, Director, Fscom
  • Richard Swales, Chief Risk and Compliance Officer, Paysafe
  • Stephen Groarke, Chief Financial Officer, Elavon/US Bank EMEA
  • Hartwig Gerhartinger, Global Head of Regulatory and Government Affairs, Paysafe

Key event themes are the future of payments, workforce development and the regulatory and legislative intersections between the EU, UK, and US. It’s designed to be an intimate event which will build real relationships and understanding in a focused group of fewer than 100 senior industry executives, government representatives, and academic institutions.

Hilary Moran, CEO of The Fintech Corridor, commented: “The island of Ireland is fast becoming a global centre for fintech. The distinctive blend of skilled individuals with experience in both technology and finance, coupled with proactive government support, has enabled a wave of startups to thrive and harness their potential in an exceedingly business-friendly atmosphere. The Transatlantic Fintech Exchange is designed to provide a forum to build connectivity across the UK, Europe and US and bolster investment in fintech across the island.”

ATPC Executive Director H. West Richards, commented: “This unique cross-border proposition connects US, EU, and UK fintech ecosystems and will help drive deeper understanding of opportunities in each governance. Brexit profoundly changed how EU and UK fintech companies interact with each other, and access to companies in both jurisdictions will enable us to work closely to develop common solutions and increase cooperation and opportunities on both sides of the Atlantic, especially as US regulators work on cybersecurity, data privacy and other critical issues.”

Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor Ryan Murphy said: “I am really looking forward to hosting the Transatlantic Fintech Exchange event at City Hall as it will help promote co-operation in the Fintech sector on both sides of the Atlantic and across the island of Ireland.

“It’s a valuable opportunity to showcase our growing Fintech industry in Belfast and along the Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor and to build partnerships with like-minded networks in the US. Belfast has a developing cluster of fintech businesses, and we have an excellent track record of inward investment. As a council, we’re building on that and raising the profile of Belfast internationally through co-operative events like the Transatlantic Fintech Exchange.”

“Belfast will be the final part of this week-long visit to Ireland and it’s fantastic to collaborate with The Fintech Corridor and our Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor partners, with meetings hosted in both Dublin and Newry. Together, we’re presenting a very attractive investment proposition.”

In welcoming the event, Minister Neale Richmond said: “Fintech and digital finance are of huge potential as we work towards the digital transition and this event is a fantastic opportunity to develop this work across our island. Fintech is a key priority of the Ireland for Finance strategy and so I am looking forward to welcoming delegates from the Fintech sector here in Ireland and abroad to keep up the momentum and strengthen our connections in this area across the island and indeed, across the globe.”

Co–Chair of the Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor (DBEC) partnership, Councillor Pete Byrne, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, said: “This visit by representatives from the American Transaction Processors Coalition provides a platform to proudly showcase the entire Dublin to Belfast Economic Corridor including our strengths in tech, innovation, talent, education, cultural and excellent quality of life for those who live and work along the Corridor.”

Co–Chair of DBEC Councillor Adrian Henchy of Fingal County Council, commented: “This visit presents a welcome opportunity to celebrate the many very special connections we have with the US from diplomatic relations to investment, knowledge sharing, tourism, education, and cultural exchange.”

More conference details are available at www.atpcoalition.com

and www.thefintechcorridor.com

4 Surefire Methods To Follow If A Household-Critical Appliance Fails

Most of us feel annoyance if certain tech issues happen with our smartphones, our laptops, our televisions, or our games consoles. It’s another thing entirely when an appliance that we rely on goes down. For example, if our oven breaks, our washing machine is throwing up error codes, or our smart boiler stops working, this can have a tangible impact on how you live from day to day, and that can be a problem. Sure, you could likely do a few days without hot water, but ultimately a fix needs to be found.

Now, it’s important to find professional help where you most need it. No one would suggest you repair a boiler from the inside out yourself unless you have qualifications in electrical work or plumbing, because the safety risk is too high. But if the issues are surface level or there may be common fixes, it’s worth considering a few steps you can take. If they work, great! If not, call in the professionals.

With that in mind, let’s consider four surefire methods to follow if a household-critical appliance goes down:

Assess The Issue’s Severity

It’s easy to go gung-ho into fix-everything mode, because fixing the appliances in your house is fun, and your consumer right. But before attempting any fixes, it’s wise to inspect the severity of the issue. If the appliance is giving off strange noises, producing smoke, or posing an immediate safety hazard (smells are a bad sign too), it’s best to avoid the urge to tamper with it. 

In these cases, you should absolutely unplug the appliance (turn off the fusebox if you’re worried), and seek professional assistance. However, if the problem seems minor, such as a display error or a temporary malfunction, you may be able to resolve it yourself.

Refer To The Manual

Most appliances will come with a user manual that offers helpful troubleshooting information. Not all information is there for every issue, but in general you can consult the manual for guidance on common issues and potential solutions. If you don’t have the physical manual, you may be able to find it online by searching for the appliance model and “user manual,” sometimes downloadable as a PDF. 

In this case, you may see a basic fix, or even identify an error on your part. Perhaps you accidentally placed an appliance under a too-heavy load (like cramming many super-hard vegetables in a blender and wearing out the motor), or maybe the fuse was overloaded and simply blew. Either way, the manual can help with basic issues, and also give you safety advice, like never removing a certain panel unless you’re a qualified electrician.

Check Certain Error Codes Online

If your appliance is displaying an error code and you can’t find particular help for it in the manual you can try searching for it online. Most manufacturers have online resources or forums where users share their experiences and solutions for specific error codes. Some common issues may even be carefully outlined by third parties, such as dealing with the common Samsung SUD error code for washing machines. 

Through this insight, you might find helpful tips or workarounds that could resolve the issue without the need for that annoying professional callout charge. That being said, stay cautious when following advice from unofficial sources, as improper fixes could potentially cause further damage. Check the site for their credentials, and if a vague forum post seems to assert something over the manual, it’s probably best not to try it.

Work On A Substitute For Now

While you’re fixing the issue or waiting for a professional repair, it’s wise to consider temporary substitutes to keep your life on track. For example, if your washing machine is out of order, you could head to the local laundromat, wear that pair of jeans once or twice more than you wanted to, or just hand wash the items (don’t worry, you’re hardly going to be the first). 

If your oven is malfunctioning, you can easily purchase a simple slow cooker, hot plate, microwave, or outdoor grill depending on your tastes or how long you expect the issue to last. This means that the annoyance of dealing with the issue is halved, because it’s not materially impacting your life. Then, the focus of the repair is mostly about getting the value out of the appliance you’ve purchased, or referring it back to a warranty and repair program for a full refund. That in itself can be a comfortable place to start.

WIth this advice, you’ll be certain to follow household-critical appliance maintenance care, while still living your life well despite this frustration. It will also refine your skills as a general homeowner, and there’s something positive to be said for that.

EasyGo Reaches Landmark Milestone of One-Million Charges

Erapid Charger Company Limited, trading as “EasyGo”, the largest private electric vehicle charging network operator in Ireland has today announced it has reached a landmark moment with its one-millionth charging session since the company was founded in 2018.

To mark the occasion, EasyGo customer Marcin Owocki from Carrigtwohill, Co. Cork, who made the one-millionth charging session, was awarded a €250 EV charging credit on his EasyGo account, the equivalent of one year’s free charging based on his current usage. Marcin made the charge at the Midleton Park Hotel and was also gifted a lunch for two at the hotel.

Commenting on the milestone, Oliver Chatten, CEO of EasyGo said: “Today marks a significant milestone as we reach one-million charges. Mr. Owocki makes use of a prepay contract with EasyGo and currently uses both our mobile application and an EasyGo fob to charge his electric vehicle and we are delighted to award him for using our services.”

He continued, “There are over 60,000 registered subscribers on the EasyGo mobile app and we are on track to see this increase with plans to roll out over 3,000 fast DC chargers by 2032. We’re committed to continually delivering enhanced services to existing and new customers across Ireland, staying in-line with our mission of decarbonising transport, providing accessible and efficient EV charging solutions for them.”

Anais Gilles, Sales and Marketing Manager of Midleton Park Hotel added: “The demand for EV charging facilities has grown significantly in recent years among visitors to our hotel, and we are delighted to partner with EasyGo to provide EV infrastructure for customers.

We’re proud that the one-millionth charge took place here at Middleton Park Hotel, it’s great to see customers such as Mr. Owocki – who has clocked 158 sessions at the Middleton Park Hotel – use these facilities.”

The one-millionth milestone comes after the announcement of Oliver Chatten as CEO of EasyGo and recent investments of €30 million by Aviva Investors, the global asset management business of Aviva plc and an increased investment from Rubicon Capital Advisors.

EasyGo is Ireland’s fastest-growing and largest privately owned EV charge point operator and turnkey solutions provider. Its EV charging network provides access to over 4,000 charging points in 1,500 locations across the island of Ireland. The EasyGo mobile application grew by approximately 2,000 users each month in 2023.

NAD Electronics Introduces the C 379 HybridDigital DAC Amplifier

NAD Electronics, a leading manufacturer in high-performance audio, announces the launch of its new Classic Series amplifier, the C 379 HybridDigital™ DAC Amplifier at the HIGH END Munich International Audio Show. The C 379 builds on NAD’s commitment to innovation and value-driven performance with a ground-breaking design featuring a carefully engineered Class D output stage, industry-leading ESS SABRE® DAC, and the second generation of Modular Design Construction (MDC) technology for upgrades and expandability. The NAD C 379 will be available at the end of June 2024 for a suggested retail price of US $1,099 / EUR€ 1,199 / GBP £899. 

The NAD C 379 utilises a customised UcD output stage with HybridDigital technology to deliver 80 watts of Continuous Power (into 8 and 4 Ohms) and a remarkable 120 watts of Dynamic Power (4 Ohms), all with virtually no noise or distortion. The C 379 can also be bridged with the C 268 Stereo Power Amplifier in a fully balanced configuration for 300 watts continuously and over 500 watts instantaneously to provide maximum power and performance for the most demanding tracks.

The NAD C 379’s highly efficient power supply consumes less than half the power of conventional amplifiers in its class while also providing clean power to all amplification stages. This energy-saving supply and balanced design also provides near perfect regulation of voltage across a wide range of conditions. 

“The NAD C 379 stands in a class of its own, integrating of every essential component of a high-performance music system and accommodating all music sources from vinyl to digital streaming,” said Cas Oostvogel, Product Manager of NAD Electronics. “With its meticulous, low-noise circuits and the ability to enhance both its features and power output, this Class D integrated is a testament to the legacy of NAD’s Classic Series and our relentless pursuit of sonic excellence at an affordable price.”

The digital circuity is built around the critically acclaimed ESS SABRE® ES9028 DAC, the industry’s highest performance 32-bit digital-to-analogue converter with unprecedented dynamic range and ultra-low distortion. 

Featuring the second generation of NAD’s Modular Design Construction, MDC 2, the  C 379 and its two expansion slots allow users to upgrade the amplifier’s capabilities with emerging A/V technologies and additional features through the module, including BluOS high-resolution multi-room streaming and Dirac Live Room Correction. The available MDC2 BluOS-D module further enables seamless integration with BluOS, Apple AirPlay 2, and two-way aptX HD Bluetooth. 

With BluOS, users can connect the C 379 to their home network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet and experience the most advanced multi-room wireless music management system with        24 bit/192kHz resolution. Controlled through the BluOS app for smartphone, tablet, or desktop, BluOS manages your digital music collection and connects to over 20 high-quality streaming music services including Tidal, Deezer, Qobuz, Amazon Music, Spotify, and more.

Additionally, the NAD C 379 is equipped with a variety of analogue and digital connectivity including aptX HD Bluetooth, HDMI eARC, MM Phono stage, and two independent subwoofer outputs. The integrated amplifier also includes a built-in separate headphone amplifier with low output impedance and high output voltage capability, allowing it to drive a wide range of headphones.   

Join them at the HIGH END Munich International Audio Show from May 9-12, 2024, in Rooms D107 and D108 located in Atrium 3.1 at the MOC Event Centre and experience the NAD   C 379 HybridDigital DAC Amplifier.

FEATURES AND DETAILS: 

 

  • Customised HybridDigital UcD Amplifier with Stereo and Bridge Modes 
  • 2 x 80 Watts per channel of Continuous Power (8 and 4 Ohms)
  • 2 x 120 Watts per channel of Dynamic Power (4 Ohms)
  • 1 x 300W, in bridge mode
  • Industry-leading ESS SABRE® 32-bit/384kHz DAC
  • Dual MDC 2 Ports for Future Upgrades and Expanded Features
  • MM Phono Stage with Accurate RIAA Equalization and Ultra-Low Noise
  • Built-in Separate Headphone Amplifier for Low and High Impedance
  • HDMI eARC, Optical Digital and Coax Digital Inputs
  • Dual independent Subwoofer Outputs

84% of gamers have an interest in pursuing a third level degree course in game development and design in Ireland

84% of gamers say they would consider taking a course in game development and design at higher education level, according to a new survey from GamerFest, Ireland’s leading gaming and esports festival. In addition, 9 in 10 say they think it is possible to have a gaming career in Ireland.

Of the 84% who said they would be interested in third level courses, nearly 4 in 10 (38%) currently work in another industry, but would have pursued a career in the gaming industry if the option was available when they were entering third level education. A further 46% are currently considering taking a course in game development and design.

The majority (96%) of those surveyed also feel that the government should increase investment and expenditure in the Irish gaming industry beyond the current level. 9 in 10 people agree that gaming companies should be able to avail of tax relief measures to operate in Ireland. While Ireland’s tax credits for the sector are competitive internationally, those surveyed said that they would like to see robust credits introduced.

Interestingly, one third of those surveyed were unaware that Ireland is home to a developing major games industry – a number of major gaming companies have offices in Ireland including Riot Games, producers of the popular shooter game Valorant, and Electronic Arts, who create The Sims series and EAFC (formerly known as FIFA).

Gaming is a hobby for all ages with nearly 8 in 10 playing for fun

Gaming is a key hobby for many across a range of ages, with the biggest group of gamers surveyed stating they were between the ages 35-44 (35%). 77% of gamers are playing for fun, while one in ten surveyed say they engage in gaming for social purposes and to meet others with similar interests. A quarter of game players surveyed spend over 10 hours per week playing video games.

When it comes to spending money on gaming, 40% of gamers are outlaying more than €50 a month, with 1 in 10 spending over €100 per month on their hobby. More than half of those who spend money on gaming each month spend a quarter of their monthly budget on in-game purchases, such as Fortnite Skins or V-Bucks, to enhance their gameplay.

Gaming fans and content creators come together for GamerFest Dublin this May

Gamers and leading content creators in the gaming sector will come together this May 25th and 26th in the RDS, Dublin for the 7th year of GamerFest, which has welcomed over 25,000 visitors since its inception from across Ireland. GamerFest has firmly established itself as a diverse, community-led gaming event for everyone with a passion for gaming, from causal gamers and families right through to professional esports players and teams.

Nearly 80% (78%) of those surveyed believe live gaming events, like GamerFest, are extremely important in supporting the games industry.

The epic GamerFest weekend is a celebration of all things gaming and will feature the latest gaming releases, virtual reality experiences, esports, cosplay competitions and gaming challenges. There will also be a host of special guests including top Twitch and YouTube creators including Shauna Davitt, The Gara Show, Ryan Mar and Jack Igoe, with more special guest announcements to come. There will also be opportunities to learn about careers and third level courses in the gaming industry from leading companies and colleges.

In addition to last year’s super events across the Play, Compete, Connect and Discover zones, this May will see both Call of Duty Zone and Helldivers II playable at the festival. There’ll also be the exhilarating Formula One Fastest Lap competition in the Currys Sim Racing Zone, and for those looking to get their groove on, a Just Dance Challenge will take place across the weekend.

GamerFest CEO Stuart Dempsey says: “GamerFest continues to go from strength to strength, and we couldn’t be more excited to return to the RDS this May. There will be something for everyone, from casual gamers right through to budding esports stars.

“GamerFest is delighted to have a number of colleges and industry experts to chat about educational and career options in the sector at this year’s event. We see so many visitors to GamerFest seeking information on careers in the games industry so it’s a really exciting time for the games industry

“As showcased by our survey, the gaming industry in Ireland is a sector with enormous potential, and we are only scratching the surface in terms of the economic growth and job creation that it can bring to Ireland.

“It’s fantastic that the IDA is currently working to strengthen the financial support for the gaming industry through stronger tax credit initiatives, and we believe this can lead to a whole range of benefits for the wider Irish economy.”

Public, private and voluntary sector organisations join forces to boost software skills in North and West Belfast

Leading organisations in IT, training and education have joined forces to provide young people from North and West Belfast with the chance to learn software skills that will help them work towards a future in the tech sector.

Over six months, Queen’s University Belfast and Impact Training, supported by Telefónica Tech UK&I, delivered a coding academy training programme to help 16-19-year-olds from the Greater Shankill, West and North Belfast gain essential workplace skills and learn about the latest technologies and opportunities within the IT industry.

This is the second year that the programme has run, and it saw the young people attend a series of regular coding sessions, delivered by Queen’s and Impact Training, with a graduation for the students held in the Telefónica Tech Belfast offices, which employ 330 people in Belfast. Sponsored by Telefónica Tech, each student was also provided with a Raspberry Pi for graduating, a small and affordable computer used to learn programming, which they can use to continue to develop their coding skills.

The graduation ceremony for those who completed the course took place on Wednesday 24th April at Telefónica Tech UK&I’s office in Titanic Quarter. As part of the event, awards were presented to the young people, including an outstanding achievement award to recognise a participant who went above and beyond and demonstrated true potential and dedication to learning new skills. This year’s winner was Justin Clarke.

Delivering training opportunities for young people in Greater Shankill, West and North Belfast for over 45 years, Impact Training, provides training options for school leavers who have chosen to pursue a more vocational path.

Ellen Dickson, Strategic VP of Enterprise Health at Telefónica Tech UK&I, commented: “Congratulations to all of the young people who completed this year’s course. Telefónica Tech UK&I is incredibly proud to once again support and be part of such a fantastic programme that will hopefully mark the beginning of an exciting career in IT for those who participated. As well as providing young people with essential skills to widen their career options, the programme will also help boost the pipeline of skills that is needed to enable our IT sector to continue to thrive.”

Dr David Cutting, Director of Education in the School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Queen’s University Belfast, said: “We are delighted to join forces with Impact Training and Telefónica Tech UK&I to deliver something so worthwhile, helping young people discover their love for IT and embark on careers in the sector. We are proud to see our peer mentors support the next generation of experts in coding and share their love and enthusiasm.”

This has been an outstanding programme to help the young people of Belfast kickstart their IT careers.  It is incredible to see how quickly the participants took up coding and the amount of talent and passion that each of them had. It is fantastic to see our students helping to train the next generation of experts in coding.”

Gerard Fox, Vocational Employment Manager at Impact Training, added: “It is fantastic to witness how much students can grow and reach their full potential when completing the course and it is fantastic to offer it once again to young people in Belfast. It not only gives them an insight into the IT sector but it is also a fantastic way for them to gain confidence and grow as they begin the journey towards their future careers. Congratulations to everyone who completed the course.”