Tag: #ireland

Ireland Opens Markets at the London Stock Exchange

Ireland’s Minister for Financial Services Robert Troy, today became the first Irish government minister to open markets at the London Stock Exchange (LSE), marking Ireland Day and the growing innovation partnership between the UK and Ireland’s financial services sectors.

Hosted by Enterprise Ireland – the Irish government’s trade and innovation agency and Europe’s third-most active VC investor in fintech – the event highlighted record investment, expansion and landmark acquisitions by Irish financial services and fintech firms in the UK, including Ireland’s Fexco Group’s acquisition of Sainsbury’s Travel money this year. The acquisition marks a major expansion for Fexco in the UK’s retail foreign exchange market. The deal announced during the summer, increases Fexco’s UK retail footprint to more than 460 locations, as well as introducing over 18 million Nectar members to Fexco’s travel money services.

Minister Robert Troy commented: “Ireland and the UK are indispensable partners in today’s financial services ecosystem. Sustained investment in Irish fintech and their growth and expansion in the UK, has played a pivotal role in shaping excellence across the City and the wider UK market. Today’s announcements demonstrate how Irish firms are not only investing at home but are also creating jobs and establishing a permanent presence in the UK, benefiting both the UK and Irish economies.”

Supported by nearly €1 billion in VC funding over the past five years, Enterprise Ireland-backed fintech companies are tackling critical industry challenges in compliance, data analytics, cybersecurity, risk management and digital transformation across the UK and global markets.

More than 200 Enterprise Ireland financial services and fintech clients are now active in the UK, investing, scaling and partnering with the country’s leading financial institutions. Today’s ceremony coincided with significant announcements from four Irish firms addressing pressing UK market needs:

•    Version 1, Ireland’s largest home-grown technology company, will mark its 30th anniversary in 2026 and continues to deliver on its major announcement of 1,000 UK AI-related jobs and a £40 million investment programme. Recently its collaboration with NatWest to embed responsible AI governance across the organisation won “Best Data Governance with AI Initiative” at the DataIQ awards.

•    Fenergo, the global leader in client lifecycle management, currently employ 35 people in the UK and will 10-15 new UK roles over the next year.

•    CWSI, a leading Irish cyber security provider today announced a strategic partnership with Bristol based Changing Social, an AI Workplace Transformation consultancy. The collaboration is expected to generate revenues in excess of $40m in the next 24 months across Licencing, Consultancy and Associated Services. Together, the two Microsoft partners will help organisations unlock the productivity and innovation potential of Microsoft Copilot and other AI-driven technologies without compromising on security, compliance, or control.

•    Clear Strategy, a leading Irish data and AI consultancy, is expanding from 34 to 50 specialists in the coming quarter as it grows its UK presence and launches ‘Tempo’, its reference data management solution, into the UK market.

•    ID-Pal, the global leader in AI-powered identity verification, has unveiled the latest enhancements to its fraud detection feature, ID-Detect. Fresh off winning Biometric Authentication Innovation of the Year at the 2025 Payments Awards, ID-Detect’s authentication engine identifies signs of digital manipulation and the markers of AI-driven document fraud. Recent results include preventing fraud valued at +£3m for car-financing platform Finset.

Kevin Sherry, Executive Director, Enterprise Ireland, added: “The UK is Ireland’s largest country export market and a strategic priority for Irish tech, financial services and fintech companies. We are laser-focused on forging high-value business connections and supporting Irish firms to enter, scale and invest in the UK.

“The global financial industry faces a number of mounting pressures – regulatory complexity, escalating cyber and fraud risks, green compliance, data silos and AI bias. Irish firms are building world class customer solutions that are agile, scalable, and secure. They’re helping UK institutions navigate regulatory complexity, unlock new efficiencies, and stay competitive in a fast-moving landscape.”

Hosting the Irish delegation at the London Stock Exchange today, Dame Julia Hoggett, CEO of the London Stock Exchange said: “Today has been a historic day. We are delighted to have welcomed Minister Robert Troy, the first Irish government Minister to open our markets, alongside Enterprise Ireland and some of Ireland’s most innovative companies. This celebration reflects the long-standing and important ties between the financial services industries of the UK and Ireland.”

The UK market is the largest country export market for Enterprise Ireland backed client companies. In 2024, 29% of total client exports, valued at €10.52bn, went to the UK and representing a 4% increase on 2023. Tech, financial services and business services exports to the UK accounted for €1.2 billion in 2024, with tech increasing by 12% and fintech increasing by 5% on the previous year.

Ireland Day at the London Stock Exchange will conclude with a dinner reception at the Irish Embassy in London, hosted by the Ambassador to Great Britain, Martin Fraser, attended by close to 100 senior leaders from across the UK and Ireland’s financial services industry.

Irish companies participating in Ireland Day at the London Stock Exchange, included: Binarii Labs, Clear Strategy, CWSI, Daon, Fenergo, Fexco, Fund Recs, ID Pal, and Tines.

Microsoft employees charity cycle raises over €300,000 for LauraLynn

Microsoft Ireland employees have completed the final 360km stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way as part of their annual charity cycle, raising more than €300,000 – the most they’ve ever raised in a single year – in support of LauraLynn, Ireland’s only children’s hospice.

The charity cycle, which began in 2014 with just 10 cyclists, has grown into a major annual fundraising event. This year, 100 cyclists and support crew took on the three-day and 360kms cycling challenge from Letterkenny to Buncrana, County Donegal, battling wet weather, steep climbs, and winding roads – all in the name of supporting children with life-limiting conditions and their families.

Over the course of the last 12 years, the Microsoft team have raised more than €1.7 million for LauraLynn, having cycled more than 4,560km.‌‌ The funds raised go directly to LauraLynn to help provide care in the Hospice, symptom management, short breaks, emergency and end-of-life care, as well as family supports and bereavement care to children with life-limiting conditions and their family units across Ireland.

In 2024 alone, LauraLynn supported 670 families across Ireland, with 119 new referrals accepted to its hospice service providing 1,677 nights of care to those who need it.

This year’s cycle is particularly significant as it coincides with Microsoft’s 40th anniversary in Ireland, reflecting the long-standing commitment of its employees to giving back and making a meaningful impact in their local communities.

James O’Connor, Site Lead at Microsoft Ireland and Corporate Vice President Microsoft Global Operations Service Centre, said: “We are so proud of our employees and supporters who continue to give their time, energy, and resources to the annual charity cycle. Completing the Wild Atlantic Way this year is a remarkable achievement and a fitting way to mark 40 years of Microsoft in Ireland, supporting NGOs and the communities we operate in.

“LauraLynn is a close neighbour and a cause that is very close to our hearts. We are continually inspired by the incredible work they do to provide care, comfort, and support to children with life-limiting conditions and their families. Taking part in this cycle allows our employees to give back in a meaningful way and support the important work undertaken by the LauraLynn team. To have raised €305,923 by way of this year’s cycle and €1,742,091 since the cycle began is truly an incredible achievement.”

Kerry McLaverty, Chief Executive at LauraLynn, added: “Every year, the Microsoft Ireland team shows up not just with bikes and gear, but with compassion and care. What they’ve achieved through wind, rain, and relentless hills is nothing short of inspiring. This year was especially meaningful, marking the final leg of their journey along the Wild Atlantic Way, a challenge they’ve taken on piece by piece over six years. Their commitment goes far beyond fundraising; it’s a message to the children and families we support that there is a huge community standing with them. This partnership is built on something special. A huge congratulations to everyone who took part.”

To learn more about LauraLynn, visit: https://www.lauralynn.ie/.

PMI National Project Awards, in association with PwC, celebrate Lidl for first net zero energy supermarket

The Ireland Chapter of the Project Management Institute (PMI) announces the winners of this year’s PMI National Project Awards, in association with PwC. Among the winners was Lidl for its first net zero energy supermarket in Ireland.

The annual awards recognise the contribution and excellence of project management in Ireland, showcasing the best innovation and talent in the profession. This year, 10 awards were presented at the black-tie event hosted at PwC’s Dublin office on Thursday 6 November.

From a workforce management transformation project in the retail sector to a telehealth programme, the event celebrated a variety of projects across numerous industries and demonstrates the growing influence and success of project management in Ireland.

Lidl was celebrated in the special “Future of Work Excellence” category for Ireland’s first net zero energy supermarket. Based in Maynooth, the store is net zero in both operational and embodied carbon. Furthermore, the supermarket’s design promotes wellbeing and productivity among employees by incorporating natural light, landscaped surroundings and low noise systems. Electric vehicle chargers, bike racks, and e-bike stations have also been installed to promote sustainable commuting.

Other organisations that were successful on the night included Primark, ESB and the HSE. Individuals were also celebrated, including three under-35 changemakers. These were Rachel Bothwell of GP Practice Ally, Sainath Vasantha of Deloitte, and David Garry of KSN Project Management.

The full list of winners for 2025, chosen by an independent judging panel*, can be found below.

  • PMO of the Year – National Broadband Ireland.
  • Project Professional of the Year – Niamh McAuliffe, NMA Consulting Ltd.
  • Private Sector Project of the Year – Primark: Workforce management transformation “myTime”.
  • Public Sector Project of the Year – ESB: PI Vision: Unlocking data, empowering decisions, transforming ESB.
  • Project Management for Social Good – AquaB Nanobubble Innovations Ltd: Nanobubble technology lifecycle project.
  • Under-35 Changemakers of the Year – Rachel Bothwell (GP Practice Ally), David Garry (KSN Project Management), and Sainath Vasantha (Deloitte).
  • eHealth Project of the Year – HSE: Community and primary care telehealth programme.
  • Special category: “Future of Work Excellence” – Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland: Lidl Zero Maynooth Store.
  • Special category: “2025 awards submission most compliant with the 17 x UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)” – AquaB Nanobubble Innovations Ltd: Nanobubble technology lifecycle project.
  • Ireland Chapter of the PMI Volunteer of the Year – Mariana Zanivan.

Speaking about the awards, Peter Glynne, President of the Ireland Chapter of the PMI, said: “The project profession in Ireland seems to go from strength to strength every year. This year was no different, with the quality and creativity of projects pushing the boundaries in terms of ambition and innovation. Not only that but these initiatives and individuals are driving real impact both within organisations and for society as a whole.”

John Dwyer, Partner in PwC Ireland, added: “As the landscape of business and work continues to evolve, project professionals are at the forefront, driving innovation and technology-led transformation across Irish and international organisations to prepare for the future. Both the Ireland Chapter of the PMI and PwC are deeply committed to the transformation agenda, and we at PwC are delighted to again be the headline sponsor of the Awards this year and support two specific awards – the Future of Work Excellence Award and the eHealth Project of the Year. This sponsorship highlights our dedication to advancing project management through a complex and fast-changing environment with resilience and optimism, to ensure that we are fit for the future. We commend each and every one of the finalists and a huge congratulations to the winners.”

Cybersecurity Leader Proofpoint Launches AI Innvoation Centre in Cork

Proofpoint, a leading cybersecurity and compliance company, today announced that it is continuing to expand operations out of its international hub in Cork. The ongoing investment will bring new specialist roles to the city centre location, including data scientists and artificial intelligence (AI) and large language model (LLMs) specialists, as the company launches its AI Innovation Centre.  This project is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland.

Today’s cyberthreats are growing in sophistication and attackers are no longer simply targeting infrastructure; they’re targeting people. Proofpoint research shows that in response to this, 87% of global CISOs are looking to deploy AI-powered capabilities to help protect against human error and advanced human-centred cyber threats. Proofpoint continues to innovate on its AI-powered defences for organisations, with its human-centric solutions designed and deployed with data privacy and security at front of mind.

Proofpoint’s new AI Innovation Centre will create a privacy-attested AI environment, ensuring the safety and anonymity of all data used to train Proofpoint’s models. AI and ML require powerful detection models and a high-fidelity data pipeline to yield accurate detection rates, operational efficiencies, and automated protection. The AI Innovation Centre will allow the acquisition of larger data sets, allowing Proofpoint’s LLMs to be used in industry-leading, high-volume, high-velocity cases, improving overall threat detection for organisations.

“The ongoing expansion of Proofpoint in Cork is a clear reflection of Ireland’s continued success in attracting world-class companies to establish their international hubs here,” said Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment. “The creation of up to 100 new roles in the coming years, including in AI and large language models, further strengthens our position as a global technology and innovation hub.”

To drive this initiative, Proofpoint will be bringing 45 new specialist roles to its Ireland location, with a continued growth trajectory of up to 100 additional roles over the coming years. The roles will include data scientists, and AI and LLM specialists.  Looking ahead, Proofpoint will also bring a security operations team to Cork, and increase roles in other functions such as its data security team. As part of this, Proofpoint is also expanding its office space in Cork.

 

“Our ongoing investment in our Ireland-based business is critical to our international growth, and to strengthening our ability to protect European organisations,” said Remi Thomas, Chief Financial Officer at Proofpoint. “Today’s cyber-attacks are growing in sophistication, and AI plays a critical role in an organisation’s defence against these threats. We are excited to tap into Cork’s technical talent base to further strengthen our industry-leading AI-driven solutions, enabling us to detect and prevent emerging threats at an unprecedented scale, while keeping data secure.”

 

“AI is a defining capability that truly sets Proofpoint apart.  We have some of the most extensive human-centric threat intelligence data, which amplifies the power of our AI solutions, and ensures that our models are continuously improving and adapting to new threats,” said Kevin Leusing, Chief Technologist, EMEA at Proofpoint. “The launch of our AI Centre here in Cork will further enhance these capabilities by integrating the latest AI advancements with our unparalleled dataset, staying ahead of even the most sophisticated attackers.”

 

“Cork continues to cement its position as a leading cybersecurity hub, and today’s announcement from Proofpoint underscores the region’s growing significance in this sector,” said Michael Lohan, CEO, IDA Ireland. “Ireland’s rich talent pool, particularly in emerging technologies like AI and cybersecurity, is a key factor in attracting such high-calibre investments.”

 

To find out more about Proofpoint’s human-centric security solutions, visit: https://www.proofpoint.com/uk

 

To read more on the launch of Proofpoint’s Cork operations, please visit: https://www.proofpoint.com/uk/newsroom/press-releases/cybersecurity-leader-proofpoint-expands-global-presence-international-hub

 

 

LADbible Group and Samsung TV Plus bring LADbible FAST Channel to Ireland

Leading social entertainment business LADbible Group has officially made its debut on television screens with its first-ever Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST) channel in Ireland.

Now available on Samsung TV Plus across Ireland, the LADbible FAST Channel showcases the brand’s most loved original programming 24/7 – including hit series such as Minutes With, Snack Wars, Agree to Disagree and Would You Rather.

With Irish audiences increasingly embracing Connected TV (CTV), the launch is part of LADbible Group’s commitment to meet its fans wherever they are – and increasingly, that’s on the big screen at home. Insights from Samsung’s 2024 Anatomy of a Streamer research report show that Gen Z Samsung Smart TV viewers are embracing streaming TV, watching an average of 1 hour and 38 minutes of streamed content per day, compared to just over 49 minutes for Boomers.

From celebrity interviews with Liam Neeson, Saoirse Ronan, and Paul Mescal, to powerful personal stories shared by reformed gangsters and mental health advocates, LADbible delivers a mix of unfiltered moments with household names and untold stories from around the world – now available in homes across Ireland. Each show is designed to entertain, spark conversation, and put viewers at the heart of culture.

This approach to storytelling has driven significant growth in LADbible’s original programming, which has amassed over 280 million views on YouTube alone, with a year-on-year increase of 20% and an average of 100 million minutes watched per month.

LADbible Ireland has built a loyal and engaged following of over 6 million, generating more than 300,000 engagements daily and averaging 9,200 views every minute across its channels.

Tom Butcher, General Manager at LADbible Ireland, said: “LADbible Ireland has seen phenomenal growth across our platforms, and this move onto TV screens marks an exciting new chapter for us. The launch of our FAST channel in Ireland means we are now able to deliver our premium shows in a way we know more people are choosing to watch and deepen our connection with our audience”.

Becky Gardner, Head of Originals, said: “Launching in Ireland is a natural next step for LADbible on our TV screens. Our content already resonates with audiences here, and with the rise of FAST, LADbible presents a new opportunity to connect with even more viewers of our shows, bringing always-on entertainment straight into people’s homes. Whether it’s a laugh, a debate, or an unexpected story, we’re here to bring people together through shared moments”

Gus Grimaldi, Head of Samsung TV Plus EMEA, added: “We’re delighted to bring LADbible’s first-ever TV channel to audiences in Ireland. Samsung TV Plus is a leader in delivering high-quality entertainment to audiences globally. Our partnership with LADbible allows us to reach and connect with even more younger viewers who are continuing to embrace CTV. Irish audiences can experience the incredible content lineup the new channel has to offer, subscription-free and no signup needed – exclusively on Samsung TV Plus.”

Availability:
LADbible is now live on Samsung TV Plus, available pre-installed on 2016+ Samsung Smart TVs and on Samsung Galaxy smartphones and tablets.\

Channel ID: 4102

Sentencing and Cybercrime: How Irish and English Courts Respond to Digital Image Offences

Technology has transformed nearly every part of modern life — including how criminal offences are committed, investigated, and prosecuted. One area that has seen particular evolution is digital image crime, including offences involving indecent or unlawful images. 

Understanding how courts handle these sensitive cases is vital for anyone seeking advice on sentencing guidelines for indecent images and how the legal systems in England and Ireland compare.

Both jurisdictions aim to balance justice, rehabilitation, and protection of the public, but there are key differences in sentencing approaches and outcomes. 

The Legal Landscape: UK and Ireland

In England and Wales, offences involving indecent images are primarily prosecuted under the Protection of Children Act 1978 and the Criminal Justice Act 1988. These laws make it illegal to create, possess, or distribute indecent images of minors, regardless of intent or profit.

Ireland, meanwhile, enforces similar prohibitions through the Child Trafficking and Pornography Act 1998, with updates introduced under the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017. Both systems categorise offences by severity, with penalties reflecting intent, image content, and distribution level.

In both jurisdictions, courts now face growing challenges due to the global reach of digital platforms, encrypted data, and cloud storage. International cooperation between police and prosecutors is increasingly essential to manage evidence securely and fairly.

How Courts Assess Sentencing Severity

Judges consider several key factors when determining sentences for digital image offences:

  • Volume and category of images: The more severe and numerous the images, the harsher the potential sentence.
  • Level of intent: Whether the offender deliberately sought or distributed the material versus possessing it unknowingly or briefly.
  • Distribution: Sharing or producing images often leads to significantly higher penalties.
  • Previous convictions: Repeat offences or related criminal history generally result in stronger sentencing.

According to the Sentencing Council, judges must consider both the protection of the public and the prospects of rehabilitation when sentencing digital offences.

Digital Forensics and Evidence

In cybercrime cases, digital evidence is crucial. Forensic specialists can trace file creation dates, download activity, and even attempts to delete or conceal material. However, this evidence must be handled with care to preserve integrity and fairness.

Both the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and the Irish Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) have introduced specialised cybercrime units to ensure investigations adhere to strict standards of digital forensics.

In England and Wales, courts rely on expert testimony to interpret data accurately, particularly when intent or technical misunderstanding is disputed.

Rehabilitation and Treatment Approaches

While punishment remains an important element, modern sentencing in both England and Ireland increasingly recognises the need for rehabilitation. Judges may order offenders to attend therapy, psychological assessments, or sexual behaviour programmes.

The UK Government offers interventions and treatment pathways aimed at reducing reoffending and helping individuals address underlying issues.

This focus on rehabilitation reflects a wider shift towards prevention and public protection rather than purely punitive measures.

Differences Between Irish and English Sentencing

Although broadly aligned in principle, there are notable differences between the two systems:

  • Sentencing structures: English courts use structured guidelines set by the Sentencing Council, while Irish judges have greater discretion within statutory limits.
  • Suspended sentences: These are more commonly applied in Ireland, particularly for lower-risk offenders who engage with rehabilitation.
  • Probationary conditions: Irish courts often integrate community-based supervision earlier, whereas English courts may impose mandatory treatment as part of longer-term orders.

Despite these variations, both jurisdictions emphasise risk management, safeguarding, and proportionality.

The Role of Expert Legal Representation

Cybercrime cases involving indecent images are technically and emotionally complex. Solicitors and barristers specialising in this area must combine technical knowledge with sensitivity and discretion.

A strong legal team will:

  • Ensure digital evidence is properly obtained and analysed.
  • Highlight mitigating factors, including mental health or lack of intent.
  • Present evidence of rehabilitation or therapy engagement.
  • Protect the defendant’s rights throughout investigations and proceedings.

Specialist representation ensures that both fairness and due process are upheld in what are often highly charged cases.

Looking Ahead: AI and Cybercrime Detection

As artificial intelligence develops, law enforcement agencies are increasingly using machine learning to detect illegal content online. These systems can automatically identify, classify, and report potential offences to human investigators.

While this technology speeds up detection, it also raises ethical questions about privacy and false positives. Balancing technological efficiency with human oversight remains a challenge both in the UK and Ireland.

The coming years will likely see even greater integration of AI into criminal investigations, alongside stronger cross-border cooperation to combat online offences effectively. 

Compassion and Accountability

Facing an allegation related to digital image offences is a life-altering experience. Every case involves both legal and psychological complexity. Courts are increasingly aware that meaningful rehabilitation depends on addressing root causes and supporting mental health recovery.

With the right legal support and access to counselling or therapy, individuals can navigate proceedings more constructively and begin rebuilding their lives responsibly.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Sentencing for cybercrime and digital image offences varies depending on individual circumstances and jurisdiction. Always seek advice from a qualified criminal defence solicitor experienced in cybercrime and cross-border cases.

Science Week celebrates 30th anniversary

Marking its 30th anniversary, Science Week, will take place across Ireland from 9-16 November, with 14 festivals and a huge variety of events set to take place nationwide. Coordinated by Research Ireland, Science Week is an annual week-long celebration of science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM).

With this year’s theme of ‘Then. Today. Tomorrow.’, Research Ireland is encouraging people to explore how science and research have shaped and improved the lives we live today, while also looking at the questions and challenges of tomorrow, and how insights from the past can influence our future decisions.

A wide range of festivals and events will take place across Ireland as part of Science Week, from an Immersive Sustainable Escape Room to an Otter Spotters Roadshow, there is something for everybody.  There will be two showcase events in Cork and Dublin that are not to be missed:

 

  • Cork: Renowned spectacle theatre company Macnas will make its Cork premiere at Marina Market for Science Week 2025. On Sunday, 9 November, Macnas will bring its vibrant troupe of drummers, stilt walkers, sculptures, and puppets to Cork city to tell a powerful story about biodiversity loss and the gradual disappearance of the corncrake across Ireland. Known for its distinctive and recognisable call, the corncrake’s decline serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to protect habitats and biodiversity. An installation inspired by the performance will remain at Marina Market, alongside the Science Week-funded SpaceFest, until Thursday, 13 November.
  • Dublin: Luke Jerram’s Museum of the Moon Lands in Merrion Square to celebrate 30 years of Science Week. Internationally acclaimed artist Luke Jerram will bring his breathtaking installation, Museum of the Moon, to Merrion Square, Dublin, from 13–15 November. The seven-metre illuminated sphere, featuring detailed imagery of the lunar surface from NASA, offers visitors an extraordinary opportunity to experience the Moon up close. Suspended in one of Dublin’s most iconic city parks, the artwork invites reflection on our relationship with the night sky, the planet, and beyond.

Some other events taking place not to be missed include:

  • Then, Today and Tomorrow – Exploring a Changing Ocean Around Us – Galway – November 15th, 10am – 5pm

Join the aquarium team and friends to explore the past, present and future of the ocean and waters of Ireland. Explore our marine heritage and past, meet our animals and discover the habitats they live in, and consider the ocean and waterways of the future. Visitors will be to join hourly feeding tours and meet our team at activity stations around the aquarium.

  • The Science of Storytelling – Dublin – November 9th, 4 30pm – 5 30pm

Storytelling is as old as time, but what about the science behind it? Join neuroscientist Shane O’Mara, author of Talking Heads: The New Science of How Conversation Shapes Our Worlds, master traditional storyteller Niall de Búrca and science writer Claire O’Connell as we delve into communication, connection, and why storytelling remains such a powerful form of human expression.

  • Let’s Talk Science Festival – Dublin – November 8th, 10am – 4pm

The Let’s Talk Science Festival is back at the Rediscovery Centre – and this year we’re celebrating 10 years of science, curiosity and fun! Join us on Saturday 8th November for our special anniversary festival with the theme “10 Years of Let’s Talk Science”. It’s an all-day, family-friendly event packed with exciting STEM activities for all ages.

  • Teddy Bears Hospital – Athlone

This event is part of the Midlands Science Festival and will be hosted by the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Paediatrics Society through a special pop up teddy bears hospital in Athlone. This event introduces children to healthcare in a fun and friendly way, helping to ease any worries they may have surrounding the hospital environment. Through a number of stations such as the emergency station, phlebotomy, or pharmacy, every teddy bear brought along will receive a wide range of care and a fun experience through the Teddy Bear Hospital.

Dr Ruth Freeman, Director of Research for Society at Research Ireland said: “For 30 years, Science Week has been sparking curiosity and bringing people together through science. Our anniversary theme of ‘Then. Today. Tomorrow.’ is a chance to both celebrate the endeavours of yesteryear that have brought us to where we are today, and to consider what may lie ahead for individuals, families, communities, Ireland, and the entire planet. We’re delighted to see such a wide range of events taking place across the country again this year. The success and appeal of Science Week is due primarily to the creativity and tireless work of local organisers and volunteers. I want to sincerely thank them for making Science Week such a vibrant, nationwide celebration.”

 Speaking about the Museum of the Moon installation, Luke Jerram said: “The Museum of the Moon has travelled the world, but there’s something truly special about bringing it to Dublin to mark such a milestone for Science Week. It’s about inspiring wonder — and seeing our shared world from a new perspective.”

For more information on how to get involved, please visit https://www.scienceweek.ie/. You can also follow developments using the hashtags #scienceweek and #ThenTodayTomorrow.

90% of Irish van and lorry drivers ready for in-cab AI coaching

A new European wide survey from Geotab, a global leader in connected vehicle and asset solutions, reveals that Irish van and lorry drivers have a clear vision for the future of in-cab technology, with 90% stating they would be more comfortable with instant audio coaching. The technology uses AI to analyse in-cab video in real time, rather than storing inward-facing footage for later review.

The study of over 3,500 professional drivers across seven European countries, including 500 in Ireland, examined driver attitudes towards the use of in-cab dashcams. While 96% of Irish van and lorry drivers are concerned about the use of in-cab cameras, almost just as many (95%) would be willing to overlook these concerns if footage could prove they were not at fault after a collision. This reveals a fundamental “privacy versus protection” dilemma at the heart of Irish driver’s attitudes, highlighting that they are not against technology, but are instead weighing the benefit of potential exoneration against a wide spectrum of worries.

Irish driver concerns are widespread and varied, with no single issue forming a majority. 41% worry that road-facing footage could be used out of context, failing to show the full picture of an event, while 39% are concerned that the footage could be used unfairly against them for disciplinary action. 37% said the dashcam technology makes them feel as though they are being spied on or shows a lack of trust from their employer. The varied barriers to the adoption of video cameras reflected by the study reveals an urgent education gap that cannot be overlooked by fleet managers.

“The data shows that Irish drivers are pragmatic and forward-thinking”, said Edward Kulperger, Senior Vice President, EMEA at Geotab. “Professional drivers are clearly open to technology that protects them and promotes safer roads, provided it’s implemented transparently and with respect for their privacy. Technology like in-cab cameras can play a vital role in protecting drivers and improving road safety, but trust is key. Drivers want reassurance that data is used responsibly and in their best interests and innovations such as real-time AI coaching show how safety and privacy can work hand in hand.”

The survey confirms earlier findings from Geotab’s driver research noting nearly 73% of Irish drivers support adopting technology to enhance their performance. This new data notes that a combined 69% are positive about using footage for coaching, provided it is constructive and collaborative, with none of the respondents stating they see no benefit at all in having a dashcam. When asked about the biggest benefits, drivers cited improving their own standards through coaching, increased security, and proving they were not at fault in a collision, further underlining their dual interest in both professional development and personal protection.

Lidl Wins Top Award at the Inaugural Repak Resource Awards

Lidl has been announced as the winner of the prestigious Overall Repak Resource Award at the Repak Resource Awards 2025, Ireland’s National Environmental Awards. The event held at The Shelbourne Hotel, brought together leaders from across Ireland’s business, environmental, and community sectors to celebrate the positive impact of environmental initiatives all across Ireland.
The Repak Resource Awards, formerly known as the Pakman Awards, are Ireland’s National Environmental Awards and recognise exceptional achievements in waste prevention, recycling, reuse, circular design, and community-led environmental initiatives.
Lidl was honoured with the top award, Overall Repak Resource Award, for its leadership and impact in advancing Ireland’s recycling and circular economy goals. Each category winner is eligible for the Overall Repak Resource Award, which celebrates outstanding achievements in recycling, waste management, innovation, and grassroots environmental action.
Lidl was also the recipient of the Best Deposit Return Initiative Award, acknowledging its pioneering role in supporting and implementing Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS). Lidl committed to an early investment of €50 million for deposit return and implemented a customer-first rollout, featuring two reverse vending machines per store.
The retailer’s innovations, including bulk deposit return machines, efficient backhauling, and the integration of charity donations, have set new standards in sustainable retail operations. To date, more than 300 million containers have been returned through Lidl’s scheme, marking a major milestone in Ireland’s circular economy journey.
Lidl’s achievement reflects the spirit of ‘resource’, showcasing how businesses can innovate, lead, and inspire change through practical sustainability in action. Their success, alongside the 12 other category winners, highlights how Irish organisations are rethinking how resources are used, reused, and valued. From community-led initiatives to circular design breakthroughs, this year’s winners demonstrate the creativity and leadership driving Ireland’s transition to a more resource-conscious future.
The Repak Resource Awards introduced two new categories this year, the Circular Community Award, and the Circular Design Award, celebrating the innovation and impact of communities and designers driving Ireland’s transition to a circular economy.
FoodCloud were awarded the Circular Community Award for tackling food waste and insecurity by redistributing surplus food and educating communities, and by building a nationwide network of community-led food-sharing initiatives grounded in circular economy principles.
Other category winners included KWD Recycling, Killarney, who were awarded the Waste Recovery Operator and Facility Award. One of Ireland’s largest family-owned recycling groups, KWD Recycling have invested in a new Killarney facility to recover recyclables from general waste, diverting over 10% of plastics and 50% of organics from disposal.
The Regional Waste Management Planning Offices were awarded the Environmental Education and Community Initiative Award, for their national campaign which reached over 822,000 people, promoting better waste segregation through research-led messaging, gamification, PR, and ambassador Donal Skehan.
Minister Alan Dillon, Minister for State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment with special responsibility for the Circular Economy commented: “Congratulations to all of this evening’s finalists and winners. Your achievements are a powerful reminder that innovation and the drive to do things better are thriving across every sector of society.
The work you do is paving the way for a more circular economy, delivering lasting benefits for our communities, our businesses, and our environment.”
Speaking at the 2025 Repak Resource Awards ceremony, Repak CEO, Zoe Kavanagh said: “We are delighted to celebrate this year’s award winners and to recognise the extraordinary efforts of businesses, organisations, and communities nationwide.
The standard of entrants, finalists, and winners was truly exceptional, reflecting best practice recycling, waste management, circular design, and grassroots environmental action.
I would like to thank our sponsors for their support and extend my congratulations to all our winners, especially the Overall Repak Resource Award for 2025, Lidl, for their exceptional leadership in environmental sustainability.”
The complete list of winners for the Repak Resource Awards 2025 includes:
·        Battery and WEEE Champion Award – Castletroy College, Limerick
·        Best Deposit Return Initiative Award – Lidl Ireland
·                       Best Single-Use Plastic Initiative Award – Glenpatrick Spring Water Ltd & Kilkenny Nutritional Ltd
·        Business Recycling Champion Award – Boots Ireland
·                       Circular Community Award – FoodCloud
·                       Circular Design Award – An Post
·        Environmental Education and Community Initiative Award – Regional Waste Management Planning Offices
·        ESG Leader Award – Jason Carolan, from Aldi Ireland
·        Innovation in Waste Resource Products or Services Award – Flamers Ltd, Mullingar
·        Tyre Champion Award – Addible Ltd
·                      Waste Recovery Operator and Facility Award – KWD Recycling, Killarney
·                     Waste Prevention Award – Rebox
The 2025 Repak Resource Awards are proudly sponsored by AMCS, Circol ELT, Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, DNV, Environmental Protection Agency, European Recycling Platform, Irish Waste Management Association (IWMA), Local Authorities of Ireland, Panda, Repak Re-turn, and WEEE Ireland.
For more information, visit https://repak.ie/resource-awards