Tackling data silos in the Cloud

In an increasingly data-driven world, organisations are adopting multicloud strategies to meet their business needs. As companies contend with vast and complex amounts of unstructured data, a multicloud approach allows them to manage, access, and protect their information seamlessly across various cloud platforms. Ivor Buckley, Field CTO, Dell Technologies  Ireland tells us more.

Gartner estimates that by 2025, over 95% of new digital workloads will be deployed on cloud native platforms. This trend is especially visible in Europe, where regulatory compliance and data sovereignty concerns are pushing companies toward sophisticated storage solutions.

Here in Ireland, according to the Dell Technologies’ Innovation Catalysts Study 38% of IT and business decision-makers believe that hybrid infrastructure dominates their IT landscape, while another 38% point to multi-cloud as the leading model.

With businesses navigating a multicloud environment, it is vital that IT leaders harness the growing bank of data within and across their organisation. That requires a greater focus on eliminating data silos and achieving a unified storage system.

There are five key considerations that IT leaders in Ireland need to take account of to ensure their shift from data silos to a multicloud approach unlocks strong business benefits.

 

  1. Hybrid and Multicloud Integration: Breaking Down Data Silos

Companies considering hybrid or multicloud approaches are often contending with data silos that limit data sharing, access, and analytics potential. With hybrid and multicloud options, many organisations are moving toward a more cohesive storage setup.

This is particularly relevant in Ireland, where regulations like GDPR and data residency laws govern how and where data can be stored. By linking storage across multiple platforms, these organisations can centralise data and comply with local regulations, granting them flexible data access without sacrificing security.

 

  1. Cloud-Native File Storage: Enhancing Scalability and Flexibility

As companies’ data needs expand, they require storage that can scale as those demands fluctuate. Cloud-native file storage – engineered specifically for cloud environments – provides the agility needed to scale storage up or down as needed.

Industries with intensive data processing needs, such as automotive technology, are quickly adopting cloud-native storage. For example, Subaru collaborates with Dell Technologies to develop AI-powered driver assistance systems, which rely on Dell’s cloud-native infrastructure for high-speed data analysis from sensors and cameras. This setup lets Subaru’s AI systems handle massive data loads efficiently, supporting compliance while delivering reliable performance.

 

  1. Unified Data Management: Streamlining Accessibility and Governance

In the multicloud landscape, data management now goes beyond storage to include governance, access control, and compliance. A recent McKinsey report highlights that 72% of European CIOs prioritise unified data management, aiming to streamline data access across cloud platforms while maintaining strict control.

In Ireland, where data compliance is essential, companies are investing in platforms that facilitate unified data policies, enabling secure data transfer between clouds with consistent security standards. This approach simplifies workflows, boosts productivity, and ensures that critical data can be accessed from anywhere within the organization.

 

  1. AI and Machine Learning Integration: Extracting Data Insights

As multicloud storage enables more integrated data environments, AI and machine learning are providing unprecedented insights. According to a new forecast from the Worldwide AI and Generative AI Spending Guide published by IDC, European spending on AI is projected to reach $133 billion by 2028, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 30.3% over the 2024-2028. By storing data across interconnected clouds, organisations can leverage AI to analyse multiple data sources for real-time, actionable insights.

AI integration is game-changing across data-heavy industries, providing the framework for complex analytics that drive innovation and enhance decision-making. For businesses, the multicloud approach also ensures secure and ethical AI use.

 

  1. Edge Computing and Multicloud Storage: Lowering Latency and Boosting Data Sovereignty

With the rise of IoT and the demand for real-time data, edge computing is becoming a critical aspect of multicloud strategies, enabling data processing close to its source.

For businesses and organisations here in Ireland, edge computing also supports data sovereignty by allowing sensitive data to be stored within designated regions. Gartner projects that by 2026, 75% of data will be created and processed outside traditional data centers, highlighting the role of edge computing in multicloud strategies.

In the automotive industry, for example, edge computing within a multicloud setup allows companies to process data from connected vehicles in real-time, powering features like predictive maintenance and live navigation. This approach enhances the user experience while ensuring adherence to European data residency laws. Edge computing, as part of a multicloud approach, allows companies to optimise data access and latency, staying compliant without sacrificing performance.

 The Future of File Storage

As organisations continue to generate vast amounts of data, the need for efficient and effective storage solutions will only grow. Multicloud strategies represent a significant shift in how businesses can manage their data, moving from isolated silos to a unified, accessible, and secure ecosystem.

Looking ahead, the evolution towards a balanced multi-cloud ecosystem will continue to shape IT strategies in Ireland. Enterprises can unlock the full potential of their data, driving innovation, improving decision-making, and gaining a competitive edge.

The shift from data silos to a multicloud approach isn’t just a technological evolution – it’s a fundamental transformation of how businesses operate in the digital age.

TEKenable Announces AI Research Partnership with Trinity College

Digital services company, TEKenable has announced a new AI research partnership with Trinity College Dublin (TCD) supported by Enterprise Ireland to advance responsible AI that benefits both people and business.

The AI research partnership creates the potential for researchers and technologists from TEKenable and TCD to more closely collaborate on AI research projects in areas of shared interest across a range of disciplines. The partnership will see TEKenable’s Jane Slevin, with a team of six researchers, explore how AI can be brought into and used by businesses utilising practical AI solutions. These AI solutions will significantly transform how businesses operate across their entire business including internal processes, financial management, customer interactions etc.

The team will work collaboratively with TEKenable, providing valuable recommendations and information for AI and data to drive digital transformation services.  TEKenable is a Microsoft Advanced Specialist and employs AI and data utilising cloud solutions to drive digital transformation to many sectors of the marketplace.

“We are excited to enter this partnership with Trinity and tap into the University’s renowned academic expertise”, explains Nick Connors, Group CEO at TEKenable.  “TEKenable’s extensive work in the AI space makes us a leading authority on the integration of AI with business processes to fast-track growth.  Partnering with TCD will allow us to further strengthen our knowledge and capabilities”.

“By partnering with TEKenable, we can apply academic insights to real-world challenges, creating a powerful synergy between theory and practice,” added Prof. Anthony Ventresque, Director of the Complex Software Lab in the School of Computer Science and Statistics at Trinity College Dublin.  “We are thrilled to evaluate the measurable impacts of AI-driven tools within business.”

TEKenable was recently awarded by Microsoft ‘AI Partner of the Year’ and also was selected as one of four sustainability & digital transformation experts working in the Digital4Sustainability 2024-2026 consortium of EU organisations.  Digital4Sustainability is an EU co-funded EUR 4 million industry-driven project to boost Europe’s skills for the green and digital transition.

AI PCs Can Help Users Reclaim Time on Chores: Intel Research Finds

An Intel-commissioned consumer survey of 6,000 respondents across the U.K., Germany and France identified that people lose nearly 15 hours a week on “digital chores,” such as meeting transcriptions or drafting emails. At the same time, AI PCs offered a potentially transformative impact on peoples’ lives, saving individuals roughly 240 minutes a week on routine digital tasks. But the study also highlighted that current AI PC owners spend longer on tasks than their counterparts using traditional PCs. Study results show that greater consumer education is needed to bridge the gap between the promise and reality of AI PCs.

“The AI PC offers consumers the opportunity to unlock greater creativity, productivity and, perhaps most importantly, time to do what they want. But these benefits can only be achieved if people are able to effectively harness AI’s potential to augment the way they live and work. Our role as technology leaders is to support this transition to AI-assisted living and equip consumers with the knowledge they need to use an AI PC efficiently and ethically.”  said Robert Hallock, Intel vice president and general manager of Client AI and Technical Marketing.

Why It Matters: The transition to AI PCs represents a big leap forward in personal computing. Understanding the potential of artificial intelligence and learning how to integrate it effectively into daily routines can unlock unprecedented levels of productivity and efficiency. But it requires a change in mindset and new skills. The study reinforced the need for greater awareness of the benefits and potential of AI PCs and the need for further education on how to use the technology to its full extent.

Intel’s report around the research, titled “Reclaim your day: The impact of AI PCs on productivity,” seeks to understand both personal and professional consumer computer habits and identify the potential for AI PCs to optimize efficiency and return time to people. It found that people spend an average of 899 minutes on administrative tasks on their personal devices a week, with coding (78 minutes), data analysis (74 minutes) and video editing (68 minutes) identified as the most time-consuming tasks.

While AI PCs are proven to promote productivity gains, with early data suggesting they can save users around 240 minutes a week on routine tasks, many consumers aren’t aware of these benefits or don’t know how to access them. Despite AI PCs becoming more available to people, 86% of respondents have either never heard of or used an AI PC. Meanwhile those respondents who already own an AI PC are actually spending longer on digital chores than those using a traditional PC. This suggests that consumers are spending a long time identifying how best to communicate with AI tools to get their desired outcomes.

While AI boasts the ability to process text near instantly (compared to the average human typing speed of 40-60 words per minute), that doesn’t necessarily mean consumers will save time when transcribing meetings or drafting copy if they don’t know how to use the technology. As technology providers, there is a duty to provide meaningful education on AI implementation to enable consumers to explore other passions with the time they’ve claimed back.

The survey also discovered prohibitive misconceptions around these products, with 44% of respondents seeing AI PCs as a gimmick or futuristic technology, and 53% believing they are only for creatives or technical professionals.

How Awareness Brings Interest and Opportunity: Survey findings indicate a correlation between greater awareness of AI PCs and adoption of the technology. While only 32% of respondents who aren’t familiar with AI PCs would consider purchasing one for their next upgrade, this percentage jumps significantly to 64% among respondents who have used one before. This shows a promising outlook for consumer interest in AI PCs, but also demonstrates the need to drive awareness around real-world use cases of this emerging technology.

Respondents in Germany were the most aware of AI PCs, with 28% either owning or having used one compared to just 8% in the U.K. and 7% in France. The German market also had the least worries about the privacy and security of their data when using an AI PC, with only 12% of respondents claiming to be very or extremely concerned. This suggests that the German market is the most willing to engage with new technology compared to the U.K. and France, and that there is work to be done to drive greater awareness of AI PCs across Europe.

When asked which feature of an AI PC they would most likely use, respondents identified real-time language translation (39%), file search optimization (35%) and enhanced cybersecurity (32%) as the most enticing features. And 40% of consumers also feel positive about the adaptive capabilities of AI PCs to understand their habits and provide a more personalized experience.

What is an AI PC: An AI PC is the next evolution in personal computing, integrating artificial intelligence capabilities directly into its hardware and software. Unlike traditional computers that either lack AI capabilities or rely heavily on cloud services, AI PCs bring all the computing power into one place. This means that AI workloads running on the PC, such as generative AI, can be based on the user’s local data and personal preferences and don’t require an internet connection. All of this adds up to better data privacy, better efficiency and the option to personalize the computing experience.

Intel recently launched the Intel® Core™ Ultra 200V series processors, delivering exceptional performance and long-lasting battery life, underpinned by AI. Intel Core Ultra 200V series processors deliver up to 120 total platform TOPS (tera operations per second) across central processing units (CPU), graphic processing units (GPU) and neural processing units (NPU). The fourth-generation NPU is up to 4x more powerful than the previous generation and is ideal for running sustained AI workloads while remaining energy-efficient.

HP Wolf Security Offers Unique Business PC Protection Against Physical Cyberattacks

HP Inc. has announced the launch of HP Enterprise Security Edition, a unique suite of security capabilities designed to enhance the physical security of HP business class PCs. HP Enterprise Security Edition includes multilayered safeguards to protect PC hardware and firmware from targeted physical attacks, while giving IT admins unparalleled visibility to help detect unauthorised firmware, and component tampering throughout a device’s lifecycle.
The rise of hybrid work and Work from Anywhere (WFA) has increased the risk of PCs being compromised by attackers with brief physical access, underscoring the need for protection and visibility into the integrity of devices throughout their lifetimes. Over half (51%) of ITSDMs are concerned that they cannot verify if PC, laptop or printer hardware and firmware have been tampered with during transit. This visibility helps to mitigate the risk of targeted attacks that gain a persistent foothold within a company.
HP Enterprise Security Edition help defends against such attacks by preventing harm to hardware and firmware layers in the PC, while also enabling IT teams to check if hardware and firmware have been altered by malicious third parties during a device’s lifetime.
Neil Dover, HP Inc Ireland Country Manager, comments:
“Physical attacks are riskier and more difficult to perform, so they are typically targeted and organised – for instance, as part of a nation-state campaign or corporate espionage. But the lucrative market for selling access to corporate networks means more opportunistic attacks – spotting an unattended PC and briefly plugging in a ThunderboltTM device – could be worth the risk for a cybercriminal.”
Dover continues, “By tampering with device hardware and firmware, attackers can gain an almost undetectable foothold on a device, which could help them gain access to a corporate network or mount destructive attacks. This is attractive to bad actors, providing them with unparalleled visibility and control – and multiple ways to monetise.”
To combat these physical cyber threats, HP Enterprise Security Edition equips PCs with the following multilayered protection capabilities:
  • Firmware Lock: User-controlled lock implemented at the firmware level and used in conjunction with HP Sure Admin. Once Firmware Lock is activated, HP Sure Admin’s cryptographic password-less authentication process is used to unlock the PC. This provides substantially stronger protection than a standard operating system lock when a PC is left unattended, preventing a bad actor from even being able to interact with system boot or attempt to start the operating system.
  • Platform Certificates: These digital certificates enable customers to validate that hardware and firmware components have not been modified since manufacturing, such as disk, memory, processor, BIOS/firmware version, or PCIe devices and the trusted platform module. This offers visibility and detection of unauthorised modification of device hardware and firmware components.
  • Sure Start Virtualisation Protection: Pre-boot protection from malicious or compromised third-party hardware being plugged into a ThunderboltTM/USB C or PCIe port. Third-party firmware runs inside a micro-virtual machine, protecting device hardware and firmware, and preventing the device from being infected by malicious third-party firmware.
HP Enterprise Security Edition delivers platform integrity protection capabilities by ensuring the hardware and firmware beneath the operating system are more secure and resilient to physical attacks. This enables organisations to manage risk to their endpoint device supply chain by validating hardware and firmware integrity prior to device onboarding. Importantly, this will help organisations implement strong governance and controls over the security of their PC hardware and firmware across their device lifecycle. Finally, end users can be confident and reassured that their sensitive data is protected however and wherever they work.
Neil Dover, HP Inc Ireland Country Manager, comments:
“Securing PCs from physical attack is often overlooked, but if bad actors want your data badly enough, they’ll go to any lengths to obtain it. Whether it’s from executives traveling for work and leaving a laptop in an insecure hotel room or stepping away in a cafe to buy a coffee, there are many ways devices could find themselves exposed.”
Dover concludes:
“Preventing cyber-attacks on the hardware and firmware of a device is key to maintain integrity of an organisation’s PC endpoint supply chain. HP Enterprise Security Edition introduces new defensive capabilities for PC hardware and firmware. This will help safeguard data and protect the integrity of the PC fleet, while shining a light on threats lurking below the operating system surface, where traditional security tools can’t go.”
The new HP Enterprise Security Edition is available for select PC platforms.

Revolut co-founders reveal 2025 vision: AI, mortgages, and ATMs

Revolut co-founders Nik Storonsky and Vlad Yatsenko took to the stage at the company’s The Revolutionaries event in London to celebrate 50 million Revolut customers and share the company’s future product vision for 2025 — which include AI, mortgages, and ATMs.

Revolut, which has grown by over 10 million customers globally in 2024 so far, is now focused on accelerating the roll out of innovative products and services to continue disrupting global financial services in its bid to become the world’s first truly global bank.

Amongst the key highlights announced at the event:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
    • Revolut announced its new AI-powered assistant to consumers. Revolut’s financial companion will adapt to customers’ needs and preferences in-app, guiding them towards smarter money habits, enhanced financial decision-making and streamlined admin. The company will aim for a gradual roll-out next year, which will be developed over time as the potential of AI to simplify and transform personal finance continues to unfold.

  • Mortgages
    • As Revolut continues to shake up traditional financial service offerings, the company confirmed plans to launch its mortgage product in Lithuania followed by Ireland and France in 2025. The goal is to offer a fully digital mortgage product that is the fastest on the market, aiming to issue instant approval in principle and final offer in one business day subject to asset valuation and any necessary checks. Mortgages will form part of the comprehensive credit offering Revolut is looking to build, with the company also exploring overdrafts. 

  • ATMs
    • Revolut will soon start rolling out branded ATMs – bringing these to Spain for use in early 2025. Revolut ATMs will dispense both cash and cards, and in the long-term accept cash deposits, with advanced security through facial recognition identity authentication. 

  • Revolut Business
    • In 2025, Revolut Business will bring its first business credit product to Europe and aims to offer one of the top business savings rates in all EU markets next year. Revolut Business also plans to help companies manage their restaurant and store operations with Revolut Kiosk, for which it is exploring biometric payments, and plans to continue to push its Revolut Pay offering with multiple payment methods including, in future, Buy Now Pay Later.

Nik Storonsky, Revolut’s CEO and Co-Founder, said: “2024 has been a significant year for Revolut, with millions of new accounts opened and innovative products launched across our markets. 2025 will be bigger and better. We want to revolutionise banking for the better and we’re on the right path to achieve this.”

Antoine Le Nel, Chief Growth and Marketing Officer, at Revolut said: “Revolut continues to change the face of finance. We’ve grown to over 50 million customers in less than a decade, a tremendous achievement, and proof that consumers want more from their money. Our ‘The Revolutionaries’ event is a fitting celebration, but we aren’t stopping there. We are already on the road to 100 million customers, and to becoming the world’s first truly global bank.”

Revolut unveiled its 2025 vision today at its The Revolutionaries event in London, which is currently underway. Featuring game-changers and revolutionaries across the worlds of music, business, fashion, sport, gaming, travel and entertainment, the event will close tomorrow with a headline performance from Charli XCX ahead of her sold-out tour.

 

The Benefits of Using Invoicing Software for Your Business

Businesses today face numerous challenges when managing their finances, and invoicing is one area where many organizations struggle. Manual invoicing processes can be time-consuming and error-prone, leading to cash flow problems and unhappy customers. Invoicing software streamlines this process, giving businesses the tools to manage their billing efficiently and effectively. Several features and benefits of invoicing software include automation, improved accuracy, enhanced reporting capabilities, and increased professionalism. Choosing the right invoicing software can significantly improve operational efficiency and contribute to building better relationships with clients.

Streamlining Invoice Creation

Creating invoices can often be laborious and prone to mistakes when done manually. Invoicing software offers templates and customizable options, allowing businesses to quickly and easily create professional-looking invoices. Users can input product details, pricing, and customer information, and the software automatically calculates totals, taxes, and discounts. This saves valuable time and ensures accuracy—reducing the risk of disputes or delays in payment. One of the trusted Prime Software options available can significantly simplify this critical business function. Most invoicing software allows for recurring invoices, meaning businesses can automate billing for regular clients. This feature particularly benefits service-based companies with subscription models or ongoing contracts. Automating these processes frees staff to focus on more strategic tasks rather than spending hours on administrative work.

Enhancing Payment Tracking

One of the challenges businesses face is keeping track of payments and outstanding invoices. Invoicing software often includes payment tracking features that provide a real-time view of receivables, allowing companies to monitor their cash flow effectively. Users can see which invoices have been paid, which are overdue, and how long payments typically take. This transparency helps companies identify trends and adjust their billing processes accordingly. Moreover, many invoicing platforms integrate with payment systems, enabling clients to pay invoices directly online. This convenience can significantly expedite payment times, improving cash flow for the business. By efficiently tracking payment history and patterns, companies can make informed decisions about credit policies and which customers to target for follow-ups.

Increasing Professionalism

Professionalism can significantly influence a company’s image and customer relationships. Using invoicing software elevates the quality of invoices sent to clients, portraying a competent and organized business. High-quality, customized invoices with branding elements like logos and colors can create a memorable impression. Furthermore, personalizing communication in the invoices, such as including messages or terms, can enhance client relationships. An automated reminder system can also maintain communication with clients regarding payments, showing that a business values professionalism in its financial dealings. In an increasingly competitive market, establishing a cohesive brand image through invoicing becomes essential in gaining clients’ trust and loyalty.

Improving Financial Reporting

Having access to insightful financial data is integral to making wise business decisions. Invoicing software generally provides users with powerful reporting functionalities that allow easy access to critical financial metrics. Businesses can run reports on outstanding invoices, payment trends, and revenue forecasts, which can help in budgeting and strategic planning. Some advanced platforms even offer customizable reports, enabling users to focus on specific areas of interest. This level of reporting can lead to enhanced forecasting accuracy and better cash flow management. With detailed reports, decision-makers can identify their top clients and common payment delays and adjust their strategies to optimize financial performance. Therefore, invoicing software can transform data into valuable insights that propel businesses toward growth and stability.

Reducing Errors and Disputes

Error-free invoicing is fundamental for maintaining solid relationships with customers. Manual invoicing methods are susceptible to mistakes, often leading to payment disputes and frustration. Invoicing software significantly reduces this risk by automating much of the invoicing process. The automated calculations and data entry features minimize the likelihood of human error. Moreover, software typically allows for pre-approval of invoices, ensuring all details are accurate before they reach the client. An organized digital record can help clarify misunderstandings quickly and efficiently during disputes. Therefore, businesses can maintain trust and satisfaction among their clients, reinforcing long-term relationships critical for sustainability.

Encouraging Faster Payments

Receiving payments promptly is vital for maintaining healthy cash flow. Invoicing software can implement features that foster quicker payment cycles. Many platforms support multiple payment options, enabling customers to pay through their preferred method: credit: credit card, ACH transfer, or online payment services. The convenience of readily available options removes barriers and encourages prompt payments. Furthermore, automated reminders can notify clients about upcoming or overdue invoices, gently nudging them to make payments without feeling pressured. These features significantly shorten the average payment cycle, improving the overall financial health of businesses. Ultimately, quicker payment collections lead to better resource allocation and growth potential.

Boosting Remote Work Capabilities

As businesses navigate remote work challenges, reliable tools are increasingly critical. Invoicing software often offers cloud-based solutions that allow access from anywhere. Teams can collaborate on invoices, track payments, and generate reports regardless of location. This flexibility enhances productivity and ensures billing cycles remain unaffected by geographical limitations. Additionally, cloud storage creates a secure environment for sensitive financial data, reducing the likelihood of loss. Organizations can implement invoicing practices that remain agile and adaptable, aligning with the modern work environment. Therefore, investing in invoicing software is essential, especially for remote teams, as it maintains efficiency and accountability.

Facilitating Tax Preparation

Tax season can be stressful for many businesses, but proper invoicing software can simplify this process considerably. Comprehensive invoicing platforms often include features that track sales tax automatically, ensuring compliance with local regulations. By storing all financial data in one system, businesses can quickly access income information and expenses related to invoicing for tax reporting. This centralized approach reduces the time and hassle of sorting paper invoices or disparate systems. Additionally, reports generated throughout the year can help business owners identify deductible expenses and optimize their tax strategies. By utilizing invoicing software, organizations can confidently prepare for tax season, knowing their data is organized, accurate, and readily accessible.

Taking Control of Cash Flow Management

Effective cash flow management is a cornerstone of business sustainability. Invoicing software plays a crucial role by providing businesses with the tools to monitor their financial health continuously. Features such as cash flow insights, real-time updates on outstanding invoices, and trend analyses can help owner-managers understand better how money moves in and out of their businesses. With the ability to forecast cash flow based on upcoming invoices and historical payment patterns, business leaders can anticipate needs and adjust strategies accordingly. Implementing invoicing software can improve liquidity, which is essential for meeting payroll, settling debts, and reinvesting in growth opportunities. By leveraging the insights provided by invoicing software, businesses enhance their capacity to navigate financial ups and downs seamlessly.

 

 

Utilizing invoicing software brings numerous benefits that can significantly enhance the functionality of a business. The efficiency gains are undeniable, from streamlining invoice creation to improving payment tracking. The professional image created through high-quality invoices can refine the client experience and establish trust. Enhanced reporting capabilities empower businesses to make data-driven decisions while error reduction fosters more robust relationships. Furthermore, features encouraging faster payments are vital in cash flow management. As the business landscape evolves, partnering with trusted invoicing solutions remains crucial for long-term success.

 

House of Marley announces new range of consciously-crafted speakers and headphones

Eco-conscious audio maker House of Marley, created in collaboration with Bob Marley’s family to continue his legacy of love for music and planet, today announces the launch of a new range of speakers and headphones.

The new Roots Speaker is consciously crafted using the brand’s signature REGRIND™ recycled plastic and bamboo, and offers Bluetooth® connectivity with 10 hours of powerful playtime. It is lightweight and fully waterproof and submersible under water with an IP67 certification and even features a built-in bottle opener and a carry loop handle, making it perfect for those on the move and anyone who enjoys the great outdoors. Plus, the innovative multi-pair mode means it can be paired with multiple speakers for redefined stereo sound.

The Roots Speaker is available to purchase in black and cream from thehouseofmarley.co.uk, HMV and Amazon, RRP £59.99.

Next, the Roots Solar Speaker also features recycled plastic and bamboo, as well as Bluetooth® connectivity and an integrated solar panel to extend its 14-hour playtime. The sun-friendly speaker can be placed in a bright spot to boost the battery by up to 5 hours, giving a total playtime of up to 19 hours on a full charge. Designed to reduce the need for charging via USB-C, the panel offers a battery top-up in the background. There’s also IP67 certification, a built-in bottle opener, an ambient light ring with adjustable brightness, and carry handle. It’s the ideal companion for travelling, festivals or garden gatherings, with its multi-pair mode.

The Roots Solar Speaker is available to purchase in black and cream from thehouseofmarley.co.uk, HMV and Amazon, RRP £99.99.

The Uplift Bookshelf Speakers are mindfully made with a bamboo finish and House of Marley’s trademark REWIND™ fabric (30% reclaimed organic cotton, 30% reclaimed hemp and 40% recycled PET). Delivering powerful audio and an understated aesthetic, the speakers feature easy Bluetooth® connectivity and a simple set-up that ensures fuss-free connection to all your favourite devices. They offer a levelled-up listening experience when used in conjunction with any House of Marley’s Turntables, delivering a more authentic, wider sound that fills the room with a rich, immersive soundstage that brings music to life.

The Uplift Bookshelf Speakers are available to purchase from thehouseofmarley.co.uk, HMV and Amazon, RRP £99.99, PROMO £89.99.

Finally, the new Positive Vibration Riddim Headphones are made using sustainably-sourced bamboo or FSC-certified Sapele, as well as Marley’s signature REWIND™ fabric and REGRIND™ materials. With Bluetooth® 5.3 and a built-in microphone for calls, the headphones provide a strong, stable connection with up to 50 hours of continuous playtime on a single charge. They are lightweight and built to last with a USB-C quick charging feature and come with 100% plastic-free, recyclable packaging, reflecting House of Marley’s dedication to reducing environmental impact.

The Positive Vibration Riddim Headphones are available in black, cream, and rasta colourways from thehouseofmarley.co.uk, HMV and Amazon, RRP £59.99.

See our house of marley reviews

Understanding ADHD Diagnosis in Ireland: A Guide to Support and Care

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is experienced by people internationally, within and outside of Ireland. If you are considering seeking an ADHD diagnosis in Ireland, you may wonder how to go about it. This post provides a rundown of exactly what the pathway to a diagnosis entails, as well as help and treatment options available to you and your loved ones.

If you are a parent with concerns about your child’s attention span and behaviour or an adult seeking more insight on how to manage ADHD symptoms in your life, being informed on what’s involved in an ADHD evaluation is the first step on your road to empowerment. Understand the symptoms of ADHD, how to prepare for a diagnosis in the Irish system, and effectively manage symptoms for the best treatment for ADHD Ireland has to offer.

Recognising the Signs of ADHD

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects people in many ways. Some become overactive or impulsive, whilst others struggle to maintain composure when focusing attention or staying organised. Other symptoms include concerns with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. While some symptoms begin in youth, with symptoms typically found in school, the condition can continue into adulthood and impact the remainder of their lives, i.e., impacting their work or relationships.

If you or your child consistently struggles with attention, time management, forgetfulness or getting things in order, perhaps it’s time to consider an assessment for ADHD. The sooner it is identified, the better the opportunity to access support and learn strategies to manage difficulties.

The Process of ADHD Diagnosis in Ireland

Navigating the healthcare system to obtain an ADHD diagnosis in Ireland is relatively simple once you know how. Most people will start by visiting a General Practitioner (GP), who will be able to advise on the process, and refer you to the appropriate specialist. If children have experienced problems at school, then it might be their teacher or a school psychologist who first suggests an evaluation by a specialist.

Experts who can diagnose ADHD are often psychiatrists or clinical psychologists, due to the training required to officially diagnose the condition. In addition to this, regulated and safe platforms like HealthHero.ie can provide online consultations to help provide clarity on next steps, and give families the reassurance they need to move forward with the process.

How ADHD is Managed in Ireland

An ADHD diagnosis tends to open a new door: one of solutions and strategies for managing symptoms, through therapy, medication and lifestyle changes that can boost focus and impulse control. In most cases, management includes a combination of solutions that are right for the given individual:

Medication: Stimulant and non-stimulant medications are often prescribed to help manage symptoms, improve concentration, and decrease impulsiveness. Medications can be mixed and adjusted as needed over time with the help of a healthcare provider.

Therapy and Skills Training: Talking therapies and teaching new skills can help on your side of things. A trained therapist can teach you more about time-keeping, organisation and reducing procrastination. They may use treatment programming to help counter some of the cognitive processing issues experienced when making decisions.

Lifestyle Changes: Keeping a routine, eating healthy food, and sticking to a sleep schedule can help with the symptoms of ADHD. Kids with ADHD should have a limited amount of choices, making it easier to organise and structure environments or routines at home and school for children with ADHD to follow, and adults benefit greatly from things like task planners with date books or apps that can provide help in managing tasks and responsibilities.

Many healthcare providers provide resources and advice specifically targeting ADHD that go well beyond medicine and talk therapy to provide broader support that can help with symptom control.

How an ADHD Diagnosis Can Empower You

For many people, a diagnosis of ADHD is an exciting and life-changing thing. It can give you answers, relief and information that you would never have otherwise had. You can take what you learn about yourself and use that information to help yourself and put tools and strategies in place to manage your ADHD.

Learning that ADHD is behind certain challenges will also give you some insight into your strengths. Many people with ADHD are very resilient; they are often highly creative and have fantastic problem-solving skills. By doing therapy and making lifestyle changes that are catered to you ranging from the people around you to your home and environment, you can use those skills to live an even more satisfying and fulfilling life.

Navigating the Healthcare System for ADHD Support

In Ireland, you receive a diagnosis and support for ADHD through the public health system, which is called the Health Service Executive (HSE). You can expect to wait sometime for the initial appointment with the relevant specialist, as waiting lists tend to be long. But here is help available that can give you an appraisal of whether your child might have ADHD and care until you receive a diagnosis.

Some families can also opt for an assessment in the private sector to avoid waiting times and start interventions as quickly as possible. Even though this is more costly, getting the appropriate interventions early on can make a huge difference not only for the child or teen but also for the entire family.

Finding Support After an ADHD Diagnosis

With a diagnosis of ADHD, having the right support set up is essential. In Ireland, there are Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) in schools equipped to help children with ADHD get the right support where education is concerned. For adults, support in the workplace, at home and in their personal life is available.

Therapists who specialise in ADHD can help work through the practicalities of coming to terms with and managing the sleep-deprived frustration that comes with ADHD, as well as putting in place strategies for bolstering organisational skills, time management and relationships. Friends and family will also play a key role though, so being able to discuss your diagnosis and what it means is likely to put them in the best place to provide the help you need.

With an understanding of the ADHD diagnosis process in Ireland you will be well-placed to live your best, most balanced life, knowing where to turn for the support you need. Equally, if you know someone you care about is struggling with ADHD — whether during childhood or adulthood — you can take your concerns to your GP or simply head to HealthHero.ie to find your way to the help and advice you need.

TOZO Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals

TOZO is a relatively new brand for the masses and it is good to now see their product in some bricks and mortar stores here in Ireland and this is a brand you need to try out, we have been testing their products for some time now and for me this brand is putting it up to the big players with their product and prices which is great for the consumer.

With the annual Black Friday and Cyber Monday here they now have a sale on giving you even better value for your money and makes way for picking up a gift for a loved one or even for yourself and with the prices they ask you could easily have a small ecosystem of products at a fraction of high end competitors and products that deliver, not only this they have mystery box deals to which sounds good for those who want a random product or gift to send to someone.

The sale runs up till December 2nd so be sure to check out what is on offer here and if you need some advice on something you like check out our TOZO reviews and stay tuned for new reviews soon.