Almost one in three Irish workers use AI despite lack of workplace training
ALMOST one in three workers across Ireland now use AI in the course of their work, with almost half of those using it every day. This is according to the latest Working in Ireland Survey, which was overseen by UCD Professor John Geary. The survey found workers were generally far less wary of the technology,…
Stop Scrolling – Start Exploring
The Value of Getting Outside in a Digital World By Liam Maher FOR today’s young people, the world can sometimes feel as though it exists inside a screen. Social media, streaming, gaming and smart-phones have become an everyday part of growing up, offering entertainment, communication and seemingly endless opportunities to connect. But as digital experiences…
More money for apprenticeships
THE Government announced a €446m spend for apprenticeships, up from €184 million in 2020, bringing funding to its highest level, according to the department. The extra money, €35m next year, would be used to expand apprenticeship capacity, it said, supporting progress towards the Programme for Government target of 12,500 annual apprentice registrations by 2030. There…
School secretaries and caretakers accept deal on pay and conditions
SCHOOL secretaries and caretakers represented by Fórsa have voted overwhelmingly to accept proposals negotiated at the Workplace Relations Commission, with 94% voting in favour on a turnout of just over 88%. The ballot result marks a significant step towards resolving a long-running dispute over pay, pensions and employment conditions for school secretaries and caretakers. The…
Irish University Association condemns Budget as failing to address underfunding
THE underfunding of Higher Education is running at €250m per year and Budget 2027 does not address the issue, according to the Irish Universities Association (IUA). In a statement in response to the Budget, IUA Director General Paul Johnston said the outcome “puts at risk the skills and research capacity Ireland needs to remain competitive”….
Handling of rape allegations at Cornell shows why so many assaults go unreported
Victims don’t trust the institutions that are supposed to help them By Kaitlyn M. SimsAssistant Professor of Public Policy, University of Denver; Institute for Humane Studies THE drinking, drugging and sexual assault culture on American college campuses is once again attracting attention. A former Cornell University student filed a civil lawsuit in September 2026 alleging…
Department of Education’s record €14.4bn budget gets mixed reception
THE Department of Education received an additional €700m in funding for next year after a large structural underfunding gap was identified in the run-up to Budget 2027. Other Government departments were levied to make up the difference and negotiations were tense, although Minister Hildegarde Naughton said she made “no apologies” for the extra claim. Some…
Teachers strike as part of the public sector pay dispute
AS we went to press teachers’ unions were embarking on industrial action in support of pay claims. School closures and work-to-rule measures were planned as the wider trade union movement and the Government seek to replace the last public sector pay agreement, which ran out in June 2026. The context is higher costs of living,…
Foxford Woollen Mills – one of Ireland’s oldest working woollen mills
The Foxford Woollen Mills was established in 1892, making it one of Ireland’s oldest working woollen mills. We welcome visitors to our mill, cafe and shop throughout the year. Visiting us in County Mayo is a unique opportunity to learn about the history of our brand and products and see first-hand how our throws and…
The Illusion Museum Dublin – what if you can’t trust your eyes?
“Seeing is Believing…or is it? What if you couldn’t trust your own eyes?” That is exactly the challenge awaiting visitors to Illusion Museum Dublin, located at 16/17 College Green, just steps from Trinity College. With more than 50 hands-on illusions and interactive installations, the museum offers an experience that is as entertaining as it is…
Unlocking Heritage, Ecology & Fine Art: Secondary School Educational Programmes at Malahide Castle & Newbridge House
Malahide Castle & Gardens: Environmental Science & Biological Diversity The Tropical Butterfly House & Ecology Study: An invaluable, hands-on resource for Science and Biology modules. Students analyse microclimates, examine insect metamorphosis, and study tropical plant adaptation firsthand. Fieldwork & Nature Journaling: Integrated with the Butterfly House, students engage in scientific observation and observational sketching, completing…