Tag: Digital

AI, Wearables, and Virtual Trials: The Future of Technology in Personal Injury Law

Technology is reshaping every industry, and the legal field is no exception. In personal injury law, cutting-edge advancements such as artificial intelligence (AI), wearable technology, and virtual courtrooms are revolutionizing how attorneys handle cases. These innovations improve case preparation, enhance evidence gathering, and streamline legal proceedings.

Personal injury lawyers are leveraging these tools to strengthen their arguments, improve client advocacy, and navigate the legal system more efficiently. As digital solutions continue to evolve, they are transforming the way legal professionals approach litigation, ultimately leading to better outcomes for accident victims.

The Digital Transformation of Personal Injury Law

Technology has always played a role in legal work, but recent advancements are accelerating the pace of change. According to Brown, Bass and Jeter, AI-driven legal research, predictive analytics, and automation are enabling lawyers to handle cases more efficiently than ever before. These tools not only save time but also enhance accuracy in case assessments and legal documentation.

Beyond AI, wearable devices and virtual reality (VR) are redefining how evidence is collected and presented. Wearables provide real-time health data that can support injury claims, while VR and 3D reconstructions create compelling visual presentations for judges and juries. Together, these innovations are reshaping personal injury litigation.

AI in Case Preparation and Legal Research

AI-powered legal research tools are transforming the way personal injury lawyers prepare cases. Traditionally, attorneys had to manually sift through thousands of case files, court rulings, and legal precedents. Now, AI-driven platforms can analyze vast amounts of data within minutes, identifying relevant case law and predicting potential legal strategies.

Machine learning algorithms also play a key role in evaluating the likelihood of case success. By analyzing past settlements and court rulings, AI can predict compensation amounts, allowing lawyers to develop more effective strategies. This not only benefits attorneys but also helps clients set realistic expectations for their claims.

Wearables as Evidence in Personal Injury Cases

The rise of wearable technology has introduced a new form of digital evidence in personal injury cases. Devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers collect valuable health data, including heart rate, physical activity levels, and sleep patterns. These records can provide objective proof of how an injury has affected a person’s daily life.

For example, if an accident victim’s fitness tracker shows a drastic reduction in mobility following an injury, this data can support their claim for compensation. Additionally, wearables can refute false claims made by insurance companies, ensuring that victims receive fair settlements based on concrete evidence.

Beyond personal injury claims, wearables can also be crucial in determining liability. A smartwatch with GPS capabilities can provide location data that verifies a victim’s movements at the time of an accident. In cases involving car crashes or workplace injuries, this information can corroborate witness statements or security footage, strengthening a lawyer’s argument. As wearable technology continues to evolve, its role in legal proceedings will only become more significant.

Virtual Reality and 3D Reconstructions in Courtrooms

Courtroom presentations are evolving with the integration of VR and 3D reconstructions. Instead of relying solely on witness testimonies or static images, lawyers can use immersive technology to create dynamic accident reconstructions. These visual aids allow judges and juries to experience the events leading up to an accident in a way that traditional evidence cannot provide.

For instance, in a car accident case, a 3D reconstruction can illustrate the impact of speed, road conditions, and driver behavior. This technology enhances understanding, making it easier for legal teams to establish fault and liability. As VR tools become more accessible, their use in legal proceedings will likely increase.

Virtual Trials and Remote Legal Consultations

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of virtual trials and remote consultations. Today, many courts allow hearings to be conducted via video conferencing, reducing the need for physical appearances. This shift benefits personal injury lawyers and their clients by minimizing delays and improving accessibility.

Remote consultations also make legal services more convenient for clients who may be recovering from serious injuries. Digital case management platforms enable seamless communication between attorneys and clients, ensuring that case updates, documents, and legal strategies remain easily accessible. Virtual legal proceedings are not just a temporary solution—they represent the future of law practice.

Beyond convenience, virtual legal services level the playing field for individuals with limited resources. Clients who previously struggled to attend in-person meetings due to financial constraints, transportation issues, or health concerns can now connect with experienced attorneys from anywhere. This increased accessibility not only empowers victims to seek justice but also enables legal professionals to serve a broader range of clients, ultimately making the legal system more inclusive and efficient.

The Future of Technology in Personal Injury Law

As technology continues to advance, personal injury lawyers must stay ahead of the curve. AI will become even more sophisticated, providing deeper insights into case law and legal strategy. Wearable devices will offer more detailed biometric data, strengthening injury claims with real-time health monitoring. Meanwhile, VR and digital simulations will continue to revolutionize courtroom presentations.

Embracing these innovations will not only enhance case outcomes but also improve the overall legal experience for clients. The intersection of technology and law is no longer a distant possibility—it is already shaping the future of personal injury litigation. By integrating these tools into their practice, attorneys can provide more effective, data-driven representation, ensuring that justice is served in the digital age.

 

Tesco Mobile Ireland Survey Reveals Digital Clutter, Streaming Regrets, and Pet Obsession

A new survey commissioned by Tesco Mobile Ireland has unveiled a nation grappling with digital clutter, streaming service regrets, yet a unified picture of mobile habits, with the majority of users relying on their devices for the same core activities: chatting, scrolling, and sharing. This proves that everyone does the same things with their phones, but with Tesco Mobile Ireland, customers can get the same coverage and reliability of a big network, but with the great value and service of Tesco.

The survey also reveals that while Irish consumers are savvy in managing their core digital needs, they often feel shortchanged in other areas of their lives.

More than 1 in 3 people (37%) admit to having more apps than they need on their mobile phones with a staggering majority (92%) admitting that they have apps on their phone that they never use. However, the focus remains on essential communication, with calls and messaging dominating usage, particularly among female consumers.

Unsurprisingly, messaging and social media apps came out on the top as the types of apps consumers use most frequently at 76% and 73% respectively with a significantly higher percentage of females (85%) using social media apps compared to males (65%). The data points to a broader trend: despite the endless variety of apps available, most consumers ultimately gravitate toward the same digital habits.

Streaming Subscriptions: More Regret Than Reward

Streaming services and subscriptions, however, emerged as a source of regret and dissatisfaction for many. 67% of consumers subscribe to more than one streaming service, yet only 31% use all their subscriptions each week. Additionally, over half (55%) have regretted subscribing to streaming services which points to consumers increasingly scrutinising the value of their digital subscriptions. This is also evident when it comes to mobile phone plans with 60% of consumers comparing mobile plans at least once a year to ensure they are getting the best deal.

“Our survey shows that Irish consumers are increasingly discerning, focusing on what truly matters in their digital lives. They want value, simplicity, and reliable connectivity, which is precisely what we offer.” said Sean Nolan, Director of Tesco Mobile Ireland.

Paws, Pics & Priorities: The Pet Obsession is Real

Elsewhere, the survey found that when it comes to consumers using their phones to capture everyday moments, more than a third (36%) of pet owners say that they use their mobile phone to take photos of their pets daily with over half (56%) of consumers admitting that they have 50 photos of their pets, and a select few (7%) have over 1,000! Even among parents, 62% say they take more pictures of their children, but 17% confess to prioritising snapping pictures of their pets instead.

The findings also reveal a significant level of dissatisfaction with the value received from gym memberships (50%), indicating a broader trend of consumers feeling shortchanged.

Sean Nolan added, “Consumers are clearly looking for value across all aspects of their lives. Tesco Mobile Ireland is committed to delivering that value, ensuring our customers get the most out of their mobile experience. With the added benefits of Clubcard vouchers and exclusive Clubcard Prices, our customers can enjoy even more rewards just for staying connected.”

Tesco Mobile remains the only mobile operator in Ireland to have guaranteed no price increases for its customers consistently for the last four years.

With nearly 500,000 customers enjoying Tesco Mobile’s award-winning customer service and 99% population coverage powered by the Three network, there’s never been a better time to switch and lock in great value. Whether you’re already with Tesco Mobile or considering making the move before another provider hikes your bill, now’s the time to take advantage of Ireland’s best mobile commitment.

Fancy a laugh? Check out the latest ad from Tesco Mobile Ireland!: https://youtu.be/e1DpI74yelU

Scaling digital businesses in Ireland could create 14,000 high-value jobs, and contribute €1.8 billion annually to the economy

A report conducted by Implement Consulting Group and commissioned by Google examines a highly important group of companies termed ‘innovative digital businesses’. The research is being launched at a dedicated AI Summit taking place today at Google’s EMEA Headquarters in Dublin.

Delivered in partnership with Scale Ireland, the event aims to promote discussion around the opportunity of AI for Ireland’s indigenous tech start-up and scale-up companies. Innovative digital businesses are defined as businesses likely to have digital technology at their core and a scalable business model less than 30 years old. They fall into one of three categories; startups (2–49 employees), scaleups (50–500 employees), or grownups (over 500 employees).

The economic role of digital innovative businesses

Innovative digital businesses play an outsized role in the Irish economy, paying higher average wages than other businesses. While these businesses have accounted for 4% of private sector job growth since 2017, they have created fewer jobs in Ireland compared to other EU countries. In Denmark, for example these businesses account for 11% of new jobs, and in Sweden, they account for 13%.

The use of AI in innovative digital businesses

Innovative digital businesses are key to capturing the AI opportunity and closing Europe’s competitiveness gap. These businesses are 50% more likely to create radical innovations and play a crucial role in the early diffusion of new technologies, such as generative AI. These businesses develop new AI tools, in turn enabling businesses across sectors to benefit from the new technology.

The potential of scaling innovative digital businesses

Ireland has a strong ecosystem of innovative businesses, with 56 innovative digital businesses per 100,000 working-age adults compared to the EU average of 19. If Ireland can transform more startups into grownups, reaching the same relative levels as the three leading OECD countries, it could create 14,000 jobs and contribute €1.8 billion annually to the Irish economy.

James Lawless TD, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science said:

“It is essential businesses are supported in the adoption of AI. This includes tailored support for start-ups and scale-ups, but the foundation of all this is people – and the skills they bring to bear. My Department is acutely focused on Ireland’s future skills needs. This includes expanding digital upskilling and reskilling opportunities through initiatives like Springboard+, MicroCreds, apprenticeships, and others. Together, with the right capital, the right infrastructure, and most importantly, the right skills, Ireland is ready not just to adopt AI – but to lead in shaping it.”

Vanessa Hartley, Head of Google Ireland said:

“This is a transformative opportunity for Ireland to leverage AI to secure our position as a global leader in technology. To fully realise AI’s potential, Ireland should seek to enhance the conditions that support businesses to increase AI adoption and scale successfully. Google Ireland is committed to continuing its  role in supporting Ireland’s competitiveness in these crucial areas.”

Marina Fitzgerald, CEO of Scale Ireland added:

“Scale Ireland is hugely positive about the potential economic and societal benefits of AI, which is being deployed by the vast majority of our members. This report is very timely as it highlights the opportunity for Ireland to create a supportive environment so indigenous tech companies can leverage AI to drive innovation, economic growth and competitiveness. Put simply, we need to create the conditions to support, and match the global ambition of our founders.”

Report recommendations

The report sets out five areas of focus for Ireland to support the scaling of these businesses:

 

  1. Build an AI-empowered workforce by investing in skills and training systems, treating AI as a core component of the education system.

  2. Widening access to state-of-the-art AI tools, digital infrastructure and compute power.

  3. Invest in research and development by investing in long-term AI research and encourage private investment at a national and EU level.

  4. Risk-based regulation to provide clarity to developers, adopters and users.

  5. Capital: Unlock fragmented risk capital markets and increase the attractiveness of venture capital investment in the EU.

Report 

Digital investment in Ireland at risk due to data centre regulation

A seminar on Ireland’s energy future will discuss how regulation and infrastructural challenges in energy are negatively impacting economic growth in Ireland.

Taking place on Wednesday 2 April and hosted by Engineers Ireland’s Energy, Environment, and Climate Action Division, The Merging Energy Landscape – A Pivotal Shift in Industry to Address the Carbon Budget Challenge Seminar, will also highlight the challenges businesses face to reduce emissions, the pressure on industry to meet targets, and the impact on the environment and economy if we fall short.

Speakers at the seminar will include Ciara Ahern, senior lecturer of Building Engineering, TU Dublin and Peter Lantry, Managing Director, Ireland, Equinix a global data centre provider.

According to Ciara Ahern: “The future of smart buildings lies in their ability to act as flexible demand assets within our evolving energy systems. Yet, there is still a significant gap between where we are and where we need to be. This seminar will explore how emerging guidelines, scalable solutions, and digital infrastructure can enable buildings to participate in energy markets—reducing carbon emissions and enhancing grid resilience while facilitating greater penetration of renewable energy.”

Equinix owns 268 data centres globally, including four retail colocation facilities and 2 xScale facilities in Dublin. Peter Lantry will discuss the need for Ireland to address existing barriers to further digital investment if the country is to avoid missing crucial economic opportunities. “Ireland, especially Dublin, has successfully attracted digital services companies, including data centres, over the past 40 years. The challenge now is how to keep pace with other tech nations amid energy distribution and supply issues that have deterred data centre development, which impacts Ireland’s economy.”

Additional speakers at the seminar will include Conor Minogue, Senior Executive at IBEC discussing the business case for meeting climate action targets, and Heidi Duffy, Operations Environmental and Sustainability Manager at Iarnród Éireann, sharing insights on the challenges and solutions to the transition to sustainable public transport.

This event will take place in Engineers Ireland, 22 Clyde Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4. Tickets are available at www.engineersireland.ie or by following this link.

Esri Ireland accelerates national soil survey across 23,000km2 for Aurum Exploration

Esri Ireland, the market leader in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), today announces that its digital mapping system enabled Aurum Exploration Services to accelerate the survey of soil samples across almost 23,000km2 in Ireland.

The extensive survey was carried out as part of the Tellus Programme. Led by Geological Survey Ireland and funded by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, the Tellus Programme aims to improve the future management of the environment by building a deeper knowledge of Ireland’s soil, rocks, and water.

Esri’s ArcGIS technology streamlined workflows for Aurum Exploration, enabling it to deliver the ambitious project in just over one year. The technology replaced the traditional paper-based survey process with innovative digital data capture. The paper-based process was time-consuming with a complex data collection method, taking the Tellus Programme team nine years to reach the halfway milestone on the project.

Using the technology, Aurum Exploration’s sampling teams were able to collect, record, and share real-time data on soil samples – ranging from location to land usage and soil characteristics – wherever they were working in the field. Apps could be used even when offline, which was vital for those working in remote locations. Team leaders were able to speedily assign tasks, manage daily workloads, and monitor the project’s progress, while programme managers could oversee the data collection process and share project metrics.

Health and safety were boosted for employees as each team’s location was visible in near real-time. The platform also facilitated rigorous quality control checks, greatly enhancing the accuracy and integrity of soil sample data. Moreover, reports could be generated on-demand, saving time for teams internally.

In turn, these efficiencies contributed to an estimated saving of 120 days per year, and a reduction in overall operational costs of around €40,000 annually for the project.

Judith Mather, Project Manager, Tellus Programme, Aurum Exploration said: “Having a robust and efficient digital system greatly assisted us to cover more ground in a shorter time, and oversight of the national programme really improved. ArcGIS Dashboards gave our directors and client an accurate and visual real-time overview of what was going on, on a national scale, which is what they needed. In addition, the improvement in data quality was a real testament to the success of ArcGIS applications.”

Schalk van Lill, Customer Success Manager, Esri Ireland said: “Our ArcGIS platform has been transformative for the Tellus Programme, and we were delighted to work closely with Aurum Exploration as the team delivered on this vital nationwide project. Reliable data was captured electronically out in the field, reducing the risk of human error and other data collection inconsistencies, even while working remotely. This also boosted productivity, streamlined operations, and improved collaboration among teams for Aurum Exploration. This important project is benefitting our environment now and into the future.”

Blockchain Analytics: How Cryptocurrency Data Is Transforming Digital Marketing Measurement

In recent years, the cryptocurrency world has grown beyond just tracking digital currencies and CRO price movements. One exciting development is how blockchain technology can change the way we measure digital marketing efforts.

Understanding Blockchain Analytics Basics

When we refer to blockchain analytics, we mean the analysis of data that is recorded on cryptocurrency blockchains. Blockchains record and store data in a way that allows anyone to view that data, cannot be manipulated, and does not need centralized controls.

The blockchain record contains useful transaction data, timestamps, wallet addresses, and transfer amounts. The analysis of this information can highlight patterns, identify trends, track the movement of funds, and understand the behavior of users throughout the network. For digital marketers, this can lead to some interesting scenarios.

Blockchain data creates an alternative way to identify how people interact with digital regulations, products, and advertisements instead of relying completely on self-reported metrics from platforms. Blockchain data will allow marketers to verify actual on-chain engagement and transaction patterns to create a more stable foundation to evaluate metrics.

How Blockchain Data Differs from Traditional Marketing Data

Traditional digital marketing relies on data collected through:

  • Cookies and tracking pixels
  • User accounts on platforms
  • Third-party analytics services

 

These methods face growing challenges from:

  • Increasing privacy regulations
  • Browser restrictions on tracking
  • Users are becoming more protective of their data

 

Blockchain data offers a different approach because:

  • It exists publicly on the chain
  • It captures actual transactions and interactions
  • It cannot be manipulated after recording
  • It doesn’t rely on third-party trackers

Potential Applications for Marketing Measurement

The crypto community is exploring several ways blockchain analytics could improve marketing measurement:

  • Verifiable Ad Impressions: Traditional digital advertising struggles with bot traffic and fake impressions. Blockchain-based solutions could create systems where ad impressions are recorded on a blockchain, making them countable and verifiable by anyone.
  • Customer Journey Tracking: With proper privacy protections in place, blockchain could help track customer interactions across multiple platforms without relying on cookies or personal identifiers.
  • Loyalty Program Measurement: Many projects are creating token-based loyalty programs where customer engagement can be measured directly through on-chain activity.
  • Attribution Modeling: Determining which marketing touchpoints lead to conversions is challenging. Blockchain data could provide clearer attribution by linking marketing interactions to actual transaction outcomes.
  • Token Economics Analysis: For crypto projects, analyzing how marketing efforts affect token usage and transactions provides direct feedback on campaign effectiveness.

Community Project Possibilities

The crypto community could develop several projects to advance blockchain marketing analytics:

  • Open Analytics Protocols: Community-developed standards for how marketing data should be recorded on blockchains would help ensure consistency and interoperability.
  • Privacy-Preserving Measurement Tools: Tools that analyze blockchain data while protecting user privacy would address a significant concern in the marketing world.
  • Decentralized Attribution Systems: Community-built systems that reward content creators and marketers based on verifiable on-chain evidence of their contribution to sales.
  • Cross-Chain Analytics Platforms: As marketing happens across multiple blockchains, tools that can analyze data across different chains would be valuable.

Challenges to Address

Several challenges must be overcome for blockchain analytics to transform marketing measurement:

  • Scalability: Most public blockchains cannot yet handle the volume of transactions needed for large-scale marketing measurement.
  • Privacy Concerns: While blockchains are transparent by design, marketing measurement must respect user privacy.
  • Data Integration: Connecting on-chain data with off-chain marketing activities remains technically challenging.
  • Technical Complexity: Current blockchain analytics tools require significant technical knowledge, limiting widespread adoption.
  • Standards Development: The community needs to develop shared standards for how marketing data should be structured on blockchains.

The Road Ahead

Blockchain analytics for marketing measurement is still in its early stages. Progress will likely come through community-driven initiatives focused on solving specific problems:

  • Education Initiatives: Helping marketers understand blockchain data and its potential uses would accelerate adoption.
  • Tool Development: Creating user-friendly tools for non-technical marketers to analyze blockchain data would broaden participation.
  • Case Studies and Benchmarks: Documenting successful applications would help establish best practices.
  • Cross-Industry Collaboration: Partnerships between blockchain developers and marketing professionals would ensure solutions meet real needs.

Moving Forward

Blockchain analytics offers promising new approaches to digital marketing measurement. The technology provides transparency, accuracy, and resistance to manipulation that traditional methods struggle to match. This potential for transformation should inspire optimism about the future of digital marketing.

For the crypto community, the development of blockchain-based marketing measurement systems represents more than just an opportunity. It’s a chance to solve real business problems and advance the adoption of the underlying technology. This role should make the audience feel empowered and integral to the future of marketing.

Conclusion

Changing won’t happen instantly. It’ll require ongoing experimentation, collaboration, and community-driven innovation. However, the potential gains, in terms of better measurement, accuracy, attribution, fraud reduction, and privacy, make it a space to observe and contribute to. 

As marketing becomes more and more digital and data-driven, blockchain analytics could be as essential to measurement as web analytics are now. Community action to make the tools more accessible, privacy-centric, and interoperable will be key in defining how quickly this change occurs.

 

Ireland’s Esports Boom: How Competitive Gaming is Taking Over

Esports in Ireland is thriving. Once a niche interest, it’s now pulling in massive audiences, serious investment and a new generation of competitive players. Whether it’s grassroots tournaments in local gaming hubs or Irish players making waves on the international stage, the scene is evolving fast.

Advancements in technology are accelerating this growth. Digital wallets and online payment systems make it easier than ever for players to stay competitive, instantly accessing new content and premium features. With the rise of in-game economies, safe and convenient transactions are a key part of the modern esports experience.

Irish Esports is on the Rise

Across the country, gaming communities are more active than ever. Local tournaments are popping up everywhere, from Dublin to Galway, bringing together casual and pro-level players alike. Universities are launching esports societies, giving students a structured path into competitive gaming. Streaming platforms are turning Irish gamers into global stars, opening doors that didn’t exist just a few years ago.

For players looking to stay ahead, in-game purchases play a big role—customisation, upgrades and competitive advantages all come into play. Without using a credit card, which risk exposure to theft and identity fraud, an alternative like a PSN card for PlayStation makes it simple to top up accounts, grab premium content and ensure players are ready for high-stakes matches.

Building an Esports Infrastructure

Esports in Ireland isn’t just about players—it’s about the entire ecosystem. Dedicated gaming arenas are starting to appear, giving teams and solo competitors proper spaces to train and compete. Investors are paying attention, too, with both private companies and government initiatives looking to put Ireland on the map as a European esports hub.

From Hobby to Mainstream Sport

Gaming has turned from a hobby to a cultural movement. Traditional sports clubs are getting involved, adding esports teams to their rosters and giving gaming the same respect as physical sports. Major events like Insomnia Dublin and Celtic Throwdown are drawing thousands, proving that the demand for high-level gaming experiences is only growing. The 2024/25 Ireland Esports Collegiate Series, for example, saw a 36% increase in competing teams and a 17.7% rise in registered players across various games, indicating a growing interest among students.

What’s Next for Irish Esports?

With more investment, more players and more recognition, Ireland’s esports future looks bright. Bigger tournaments, better infrastructure and more Irish players competing at the highest levels are all on the horizon. What was once an underground scene is now a full-fledged industry, and it’s only just getting started.

BBC launches flagship technology programme Tech Now

On Saturday 29th March, the BBC will launch Tech Now, the flagship technology programme on the BBC News channel and international digital platform, BBC.com.

Tech Now (previously Click), uses its international network of technology reporters to explore the latest innovation and technology shaping our lives. Bringing audiences the inside track on global trends and advancements happening in the tech space today – from AI and robotics, to health, climate, transport and gaming.

In the first episode of Tech Now, technology reporter Adrienne Murray explores the future of air travel and the race to decarbonise aviation; Joe Tidy visits rural Zambia to see how Bitcoin has helped electricity projects to get thousands of villagers on the grid; Nick Kwek brings us the big developments from SXSW Festival in Austin, Texas, and Alasdair Keane heads behind the scenes of Europe’s newest and biggest wildlife endocrinology labs at Chester Zoo.

Future episodes will also be looking at the Game Developer Conference in San Francisco; Microsoft’s HQ in Washington; the Rubin Observatory in Chile; and green steel production in Sweden.

Tech Now’s TV programmes are also complemented by engaging short online videos available on BBC.com.

Monica Soriano, Editor, Tech Now: “For over a century the BBC has been an innovator in both technology and content, inventing core elements of radio and television, pioneering online services, and creating programme formats that audiences in their millions have enjoyed.

“With a wide network of technology reporters around the world, Tech Now brings a truly global perspective to the trends and advancements happening in the technology space today and showcasing their potential global impacts”

For more technology content from the BBC, audiences can also subscribe to BBC’s Tech Decoded newsletter which decodes the biggest developments in technology for a global audience, drawing on the expertise of BBC correspondents posted around the world. Rooted in the largest tech hubs, Tech Decoded contains an in-depth analysis of a big global issue, plus snapshots of top technology stories and features.

The first episode of Tech Now airs on the BBC News Channel on Saturday 29th March at 00:30, 06:30 and 18:30, Sunday 30th March at 04:30, 13:30, and Thursday 3rd April at 08:30 (all times GMT).

Eight in Ten 18-34 year olds in Ireland have seen or experienced online bullying

According to latest research conducted by LADbible, 8 in 10 (81%) of Irish 18-34 year olds have seen or experienced bullying online. Currently, Irish citizens haven’t got anything legally sufficient to protect them from it. Leprechauns, however, were given a special protected status in 2009 under EU Law.
Dublin-based creative agency Folk VML have teamed up with digital youth platform LADbible for a bold new campaign highlighting the lack of online protections for Irish citizens by drawing comparison to the country’s most famous mythical creatures, leprechauns. ‘The Leprechaun Law’ calls on the people of Ireland to change their identities and identify as leprechauns to benefit from greater legal protections.
Although the stunt may sound as fantastical as the mischievous “little people” themselves, it is rooted in legal reality. Under the EU Habitats Directive, leprechauns are designated as a “protected” species alongside other flora and fauna in Ireland’s Sliabh Foy Loop area, giving them the right to live ‘undisturbed’ in their habitat.
LADbible’s research also found that 1 in 10 18-34 year olds in Ireland have personally experienced online bullying at least once a month (11%), and 63% of 18-34 year olds in Ireland believe online bullying has worsened over the past five years. The most common reasons stated for this is the growth in social media followed by anonymity online leading to worse behaviours.
Ireland currently does not have any specific laws concerning hate speech, making the country an outlier in the European Union.  Ireland hasn’t updated its hate speech laws since 1989, although there has been an ongoing effort to update them since the Dublin riots in 2023 – but so far this has not been successful.
Sylvia Julius, solicitor, said: “Ireland’s hate speech laws, which pre-date the internet, are not fit for the digital age, and lag well behind those of other EU member states in protecting citizens from online hate – in stark contrast to the rights and protections afforded to leprechauns under EU legislation that grants them heritage status. The government must step up to ensure that people online (as well as leprechauns!) are appropriately protected under the law.”
LADbible Ireland, one of the most engaged and influential social publishers, with 5 million followers across all social platforms, is uniquely placed to call for action – and keenly aware of the prevalence of online hate affecting its own followers. In a recent Instagram post, the channel revealed that 91% of its audience had witnessed hateful comments online.
Tom Butcher, General Manager LADbible Ireland said: “As a digital publisher, we’ve witnessed firsthand the appalling abuse, bigotry and hateful comments that our readers are increasingly subjected to online – with scant protection offered by hate speech laws which pre-date the internet. We wanted to highlight the urgent need for change in a witty yet thought-provoking way – by offering citizens the chance to become as well protected, legally speaking, as our national mascots.”
Karl Waters, Chief Creative Officer at Folk VML, said “Sometimes truth is stranger than fiction, Leprechauns have protected status in Ireland, whereas us mere humans do not online in Ireland. Our ambition is to create a community of leprechauns to help change that. We are delighted to be working with LADBible on this crucially important campaign to change Ireland’s hate speech legislation.”
The call to action is led by an animated film that skewers the Emerald Isle’s friendly reputation and stunning scenery by contrasting it with the ugly online reality, the film depicts a postcard-perfect Irish landscape, before revealing that Ireland is “the land of a hundred thousand ways to spread hate online.”
Alongside the film, The Leprechaun Law will feature a pop-up law firm booth, on 26th March in the city centre, where passersby can apply to change their identity in person and sign a petition urging the Irish government to update its hate speech laws.
Anyone can sign up to change their identity to a Leprechaun here and call on the Irish Government to urgently review and reform Ireland’s hate speech legislation.
See summary of 1989 law and efforts to update it: https://hatecrime.osce.org/hate-crime-legislation-ireland