20 roles created as Affidea opens new clinic in Charlestown, North Dublin, with capacity for 30,000 patients per annum across a range of diagnostic and out-patient services

  • Affidea Charlestown state-of-the-art medical facility will facilitate faster access to diagnostic services such as MRI, X-Ray and Ultrasound scans, reducing pressure on the Irish healthcare system

 

  • With 450 employees providing services to over 300,000 patients nationwide, new facility accelerates Affidea’s ambition to become one of the leading healthcare providers on the island of Ireland

 

 

Affidea, one of Ireland’s leading providers of diagnostic imaging, out-of-hospital services and day case surgery on the island of Ireland with 19 clinical facilities, has today officially opened a new diagnostics clinic in Charlestown, North Dublin. The purpose-built centre hosts two new advanced MRI systems as well as X-ray, Ultrasound services and treatment rooms all under one roof to serve the North Dublin community and surrounding areas.

 

The opening of the new clinic is part of Affidea’s recently announced multi-million investment in a range of healthcare facilities and services nationwide. As a result, the company now employs over 450 professionals who provide medical services to over 300,000 patients across Ireland annually.

 

Operating seven days a week, Affidea Charlestown, which employs over 20 staff, provides patients with access to Affidea’s full suite of state-of-the-art diagnostic services and a highly experienced team of radiographers, consultant radiologists and specialist medical consultants. With a capacity for over 30,000 patients a year in a primary care out of hospital environment, this additional capacity will reduce patients wait time for diagnostic imaging in a comfortable and modern setting.

 

Affidea Charlestown is located in a two storey 5,400 sq.ft facility in the Charlestown Shopping Centre, just two minutes’ drive from Junction 5 off the M50. The location has over 1,000 car parking spaces and is easily accessed by a number of bus routes throughout Dublin.

 

In addition to opening the new clinic in Charlestown, over the last 12 months Affidea has also installed eight new MRI machines nationwide, enabling Affidea to conduct 70,000 additional MRI scans per year. With new MRIs deployed in Mallow, Drogheda, Limerick and Athlone, patients in these areas are now experiencing faster access to much needed diagnostic imaging.

 

Barry Downes, CEO of Affidea Ireland, said: “We are delighted to officially open Affidea’s latest clinic in Charlestown, Dublin. The purpose-built centre will provide access to Affidea’s full suite of diagnostic services for the local and wider community, with a full team of skilled radiographers and medical specialists on hand. The opening of the medical facility reaffirms Affidea’s ongoing commitment to enhance access to high-quality, patient-centred healthcare for both the public and private markets across the island of Ireland, and aligns with our strategic vision to broaden our clinical services portfolio and cater to the needs of local areas. The advanced technology in Affidea Charlestown will greatly improve patient experience.”

Affidea Ireland, established in 2007, is part of the European Group, Affidea, which has 360 medical centres across 16 countries. In Ireland, Affidea facilities are located in Dublin – Charlestown, Dundrum, Northwood, Meath Primary Care and Tallaght – Drogheda, Naas, Waterford, Kilkenny, Limerick, Cork city, Mallow, Athlone, Letterkenny, Belfast and Sligo.

 

Affidea also operates walk-in ExpressCare Clinics that treat minor injuries and illnesses that don’t require a hospital visit. Available in Northwood in Santry, Tallaght and Cork, they offer fast turnaround times without an appointment for fractures and sprains, lacerations requiring stitches, sports and DIY injuries, minor burns and scalds, eye and ear injuries, insect and animal bites, infections and rashes. Children over the age of one are also treated, eliminating the need for a stressful visit to a hospital A&E department with an injured child.

 

Work IQ appoints three senior team members ahead of impending opening of new Innovation Centre in Tallaght

Work IQ is a €16 million purpose-built innovation centre that will offer workspace,

business support and programme of events for up to 60 entrepreneurs, start-ups and

growing SMEs

 

Work IQ, the new home of start-ups and growing enterprises in South Dublin, has appointed Eoghan Powell as Centre Director, Lisa Simpson as Assistant Centre Manager and Daniel Halpin as Business Growth Manager ahead of the Innovation Centre’s impending opening in Tallaght’s newly developed Innovation Quarter.

 

Work IQ, a €16 million 3,000 sq. m four story purpose-built innovation centre, situated in Tallaght, South Dublin, will open in the coming months and will offer supportive workspace opportunities for up to 60 entrepreneurs, start-ups and growing SMEs. The facility will consist of co-working spaces, private offices, meeting and conference rooms and an on-site café, as well as business support and a programme of events to help companies along their growth journey.

 

Work IQ will be the first Irish centre run by Oxford Innovation Space, the organisation responsible for managing the largest network of innovation centres in the UK, housing over 1,000 innovative early-stage businesses.

 

Eoghan Powell – Centre Director at Work IQ: Originally from Dublin, Eoghan has held a number of leadership and managerial positions across a range of industries including Education, Leisure, Travel, Advertising and Technology. He brings a wealth of experience in Business Development, Finance, Project Management and Strategy and Innovation to his new role as Centre Director at Work IQ.

 

In his previous roles, Eoghan was responsible for developing online training programmes for TUI Travel, the world’s largest travel company. He also founded a UK-based Education startup which worked with New Oriental, the largest EdTech company in China, and developed entrepreneurial programmes across the Gulf.

 

Eoghan is a graduate with a distinction from the Global MBA programme at the University of Manchester, one of the Top 50 business schools in the world.

 

Lisa Simpson – Assistant Centre Manager at Work IQ: Originally from Kildare and now living in Tallaght, Lisa has 15+ years experience in retail, hospitality and customer service, including the role of Retail Manager for high end fashion stores such as Karen Millen, Zara and Superdry’s 26,000 sq. ft flagship store on Suffolk Street in Dublin’s City Centre.

 

Lisa also worked with co-working office space WeWork for almost five years as Community Lead and Cluster Community Manager. During her time there, Lisa assisted with opening their first location in Dublin’s Iveagh Court, she was also heavily involved in WeWork’s expansion to four locations, with responsibility for three locations across Dublin, 4,500 members and the management of the majority of the Irish WeWork team.

 

In her new role, Lisa will be responsible for driving operational excellence within the building and overseeing day-to-day support and guidance for new companies.

 

Daniel Halpin – Business Growth Manager with Work IQ: Born and raised in Tallaght, Daniel has been involved in a number of startups in South Dublin, playing a pivotal role in expanding client bases, refining offerings, and steering companies towards international success.

 

Daniel also has firsthand experience in the startup realm as the visionary behind Luggwoods, a family experience location in South Dublin that attracts 100,000 visitors annually. Daniel is a keen outdoorsman, sports enthusiast and wellness practitioner, which led him to establish Rewild Adventures in 2021, a company which helps people discover their potential by combining the power of nature, adventure and wellness activities.

 

Daniel’s extensive knowledge in the startup ecosystem and growing and scaling Irish businesses will contribute significantly to his new role as Business Growth Manager of Work IQ, where he will work with client companies in the venue to identify their goals, drive growth and explore new opportunities and challenges.

 

Daniel is a graduate of Avionic Engineering at IT Carlow and Aeronautical Engineering at the University of Limerick, and also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Advertising from TU Dublin and a Professional Diploma in Creativity, Innovation and Leadership from UCD.

 

Speaking about the appointments Jo Stevens, Managing Director of Oxford Innovation Space, said: “We are delighted to announce the appointment of these highly talented individuals to the senior team at Work IQ Tallaght. It fills me with great confidence to know that professionals with such deep and intimate knowledge of business development, co-working spaces and strategy will be overseeing this new innovation centre. I’m really looking forward to seeing the team create an environment where innovators and entrepreneurs can thrive.”

 

Strategically located on land owned by South Dublin County Council in Tallaght Town Centre, Work IQ is a key part of a new urban district called Innovation Quarter Tallaght being developed by the Council that also includes a new cost rental apartment scheme (which, along with Work IQ, will be served by the Tallaght District Heating Scheme, Heatworks) and a new public park called Innovation Square. The €16 million project is funded by the Council, with significant support from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage through the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund.

 

 

Register your interest in renting a workspace or joining a community of innovators, thinkers,

entrepreneurs and creatives at www.workiq.ie

Almost two thirds (64%) of Irish people over 50 believe shingles would have an extremely negative impact on their quality of life

  • Globally, shingles will affect up to 1 in 3 people in their lifetime,[i],[ii],[iii],[iv] and its pain is often described as aching, burning, stabbing or shock-like1
  • ‘Understanding Shingles’ research, conducted in Ireland launched in time for Shingles Awareness Week 2024 (26th February – 3rd March), finds a widespread lack of understanding of shingles and its lifetime risk
  • 71% of over-50s perceive shingles to be a severe disease 5
  • Almost a third (29%) of over 50s in Ireland incorrectly believe that if they’ve had chicken pox in the past, they have a low risk of getting shingles 5
  • 56% of over-50s feel that they are at high risk of developing shingles
  • Almost one in five people over 50 incorrectly believe that having had shingles previously means they will not get it again 5

 

GSK Ireland today released new data from an Irish survey, commissioned and funded by GSK, highlighting some significant gaps in the understanding of shingles risk among people aged 50 and over, a group of adults already at risk of the disease with almost two thirds (64%) of Irish people over 50 believing that shingles will have an extremely negative impact on their quality of life.5

 

The launch of the survey findings is part of Shingles Awareness Week (26 February 2024 – 3 March 2024), a global campaign led by GSK in collaboration with the International Federation on Ageing (IFA). The aim is to raise awareness and address the lack of knowledge about the risks and impact of shingles and to encourage those at risk to speak with their doctor, practice nurse or pharmacist about the risk factors for shingles and shingles prevention.

 

The GSK ‘Understanding Shingles’ research, conducted in Ireland, reveals that 71% of respondents perceive shingles to be a serious disease with 56% of respondents feeling that they are at high risk of developing shingles.5 It also shows that people over 50 in Ireland have good awareness of the common symptoms of shingles – including a red rash (97%), severe pain (88%), blisters (77%) and long-term nerve pain (77%).5 However, only 58% of those asked were aware that one of the possible complications of shingles on the eye can cause blindness.5 Knowledge also differed on contributing factors such as a weakened immune system (68%), being under stress (45%) and age-related declining immunity (48%).5

 

One-in-three people who have had chickenpox are at risk of developing shingles in their lifetime.6 The disease, which typically presents as a rash, with painful blisters across the chest, abdomen or face,7 is often described as aching, burning, stabbing or shock-like.1 Following the shingles rash, a person can also experience post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), a long-lasting nerve pain that can last weeks or months and occasionally persist for several years. 1,4 PHN occurs in around 20% of all shingles cases, with the over-50s particularly at risk.8

 

Eavan Daly, Country Medical Director, GSK Ireland, said: “It is so important that we continue our efforts to raise awareness of the risk of shingles in adults over 50. Market research conducted in Ireland shows that many older adults have limited knowledge of the condition and who is most at risk. Shingles can be a debilitating disease that can significantly impact the quality of day-to-day life for those impacted. During our disease awareness campaign launching this week, we’re asking people over the age of 50 to talk to a healthcare professional about this painful condition that will affect many of us in our lifetime. Based on our market research and feedback from health care professionals we’ve found that disease awareness campaigns like this can help encourage people to learn more about the condition and discuss it with their health care professional.”

 

Most adults already have the virus that causes shingles present in their bodies by the age of 15,9 which may reactivate with advancing age.1 Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox.1 As people age, the strength of the immune system response to infection wanes, increasing the risk of developing shingles.1 There is a sharp increase in the risk of developing shingles in people aged 50 and older.1

 

Martina Phelan, Chair of Chronic Pain Ireland, said: “Shingles can be very painful and can feel like burning, shooting, stabbing or even constant unbearable itching. It does not happen to everyone, and it may only last for a few weeks, but some people can experience postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a chronic condition that is difficult to treat and may cause pain for months, or longer. We are pleased to be part of this Shingles disease awareness campaign, which we see as an important way to help adults understand their risks and the potential complications associated with this disease.”

 

About Shingles Awareness Week 

Shingles Awareness Week (26 February 2024 – 3 March 2024) is an annual global awareness week dedicated to addressing the lack of knowledge about the risks and severity of shingles. In collaboration with the International Federation on Ageing (IFA), Shingles Awareness Week was set up to encourage informed conversations between adults, particularly if aged 50 and over, and their healthcare professionals about shingles.

 

Visit www.understandingshingles.ie to learn more about shingles.

 

To help improve public awareness of shingles, GSK Ireland will be running a shingles disease awareness campaign across television and radio as well as outdoor advertisements including billboards and bus shelters. These encourage the public to speak to a healthcare professional and visit understandingshingles.ie.

 

About the Shingles in Ireland survey

Research into perceptions of shingles in Ireland was conducted by Ipsos MRBI on behalf of GSK. Fieldwork was carried out between 16 and 31 October 2023​. 300 people aged between 50 and 70+ years participated in the online survey. Respondents were recruited to match national proportions in terms of region where they live​, gender​ and working situation​.

 

About shingles

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox.1 By age 50, VZV is present in most adults,2 which may reactivate with advancing age.7 As people age, the strength of the immune system response to infection wanes, increasing the risk of developing shingles.1

 

Shingles typically presents as a rash, with painful blisters across the chest, abdomen, or face.7 The pain is often described as aching, burning, stabbing or shock-like.1

 

Following the rash, a person can also experience post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), a long-lasting nerve pain that can last weeks or months and can occasionally persist for several years.1 PHN is the most common complication of shingles, occurring in 20% of all shingles cases.8

About GSK Ireland

GSK is a global biopharma company with a purpose to unite science, technology, and talent to get ahead of disease together. We have a long heritage in Ireland, operating here for almost 100 years. Today, our Dublin headquarters is home to our commercial business. Through our sales, marketing, market access and medical teams, we make a range of over 100 prescription medicines and vaccines available to adults in Ireland. Find out more at gsk.com/en- gb/locations/ireland/

About Chronic Pain Ireland
Established in 1992, Chronic Pain Ireland is the national organisation providing information and support services to people living with chronic pain. Chronic Pain is a registered charity and works with all stakeholders including those living with chronic pain, their families and carers, health professionals, students, researchers, and others interested in chronic pain. For more information see: https://www.chronicpain.ie/

[i] Harpaz R, et al. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Prevention of herpes zoster: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). MMWR Recomm Rep. 2008;57(RR-5):1-30.

[ii] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Shingles in Australia. Available at: https://www.aihw.gov.au/getmedia/759199ff-f5c8-421d-a572-aaa984a02b49/aihw-phe-236_shingles.pdf.aspx. Last Accessed: November 2023

[iii] Lee C, et al. Lifetime risk of herpes zoster in the population of Beijing, China. Public Health in Practice. 2023 Jun;5:100356.

[iv] Curran D, et al. Meta-Regression of Herpes Zoster Incidence Worldwide. Infect Dis Ther. 2022 Feb;11(1):389-403.

5 Data on File. Shingles Vaccine ATU Ireland Consumers by Ipsos MRBI on behalf of GSK. November 2023.

6 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prevention of Herpes Zoster; recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunisation Practices (ACIP). MMWR, 2008 Jun;57(RR-5): 1-30.

7 Mueller NH, et al. Varicella Zoster Virus Infection: Clinical Features, Molecular Pathogenesis of Disease and Latency. Neurologic Clinics. 2008;26;675-697

8 Gauthier et al. Epidemiology and costs of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia in the United Kingdom. Epidemiol Infecti. 2009 137 38-472.

9 Bollaerts K, Riera-Montes M, Heininger U, et al. A systemic Review of varicella seroprevalence in European countries before universal childhood immunisation: Deriving incidence from seroprevalence data. Epidemiol Infect. 2017 Aug;145:2666-77.

 

 

 

 

Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland releases latest Complaints Bulletin

  • 6 advertisements across online, out of home, social media and radio were found to be in breach of the ASAI Code on grounds related to a range of issues including Misleading, Substantiation, Promotional Marketing Practices and Alcoholic Drinks

 

The Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland’s (ASAI) independent Complaints Committee has released its latest Complaints Bulletin, which contains 6 case reports on complaints recently investigated by the organisation.

 

3 of the 6 cases were upheld in full and 3 of the 6 cases were upheld in part. Advertisements across online, out of home, social media and radio were found to be in breach of the ASAI Code on grounds related to Misleading, Substantiation, Promotional Marketing Practices and Alcoholic Drinks.

 

The Complaints Committee is a completely independent arm of the ASAI and is responsible for considering and adjudicating on complaints submitted by the public, by an organisation, by a Government Department, or any other person or body. The Committee is made up of a range of experts from the advertising, media, education, consumer, and marketing sectors. See further details here – http://www.asai.ie/about-us/complaints-committee

 

Commenting on the latest ASAI rulings, Orla Twomey, Chief Executive of the ASAI, stated:

“The range and nature of advertisements in the latest complaints bulletin from the ASAI demonstrates the importance of our role to the Irish advertising industry, ensuring that advertisements are legal, truthful, decent and honest for all consumers. Ad complaints are assessed against the comprehensive Code of Standards for Advertising and Marketing Communications, and where appropriate, investigated.  A portion of complaints are brought to the Independent Complaints Committee to decide whether a breach of the Code has occurred.  High levels of compliance with these decisions, together with ASAI requests for ad amendments, demonstrates the industry’s commitment to high standards and responsible advertising. 

 

“The ASAI also provides a free and confidential copy advice service to the advertising industry to help them create responsible ads that adhere to the advertising code. If an advertiser, agency, or medium has any concerns about a marketing communications’ compliance with the ASAI’s Code, they can contact us and avail of the free and confidential copy advice service.”

 

 

Below is a list of 6 advertisements that have been found to be in breach of the ASAI Code:

 

Advertiser Medium Complaint Category Description Complaint Status Section Breached Link
An Post Online (Company’s own website)  

Misleading / Substantiation

 

 

A webpage on the advertiser’s website outlined the costs and delivery timeframes

for four postage options.

 

One option listed a price of €4.50 with a delivery timeframe of 2-3 working days for worldwide delivery.

 

The complainant considered the advertisement to be misleading as they posted 100 letters to the Netherlands via the advertised postal option but stated that 20 days later, the letters had not been delivered. The complainant said that upon contacting An Post, they were advised

that the delivery times on the website were only an indication of the postage timeframe and that this was outlined in the terms and conditions on the website.

 

The complaint stated that these terms and conditions were also not mentioned on the website.

 

Upheld 4.1 and 4.4 https://www.asai.ie/complaint/postal-services/
Emerald Park  

Online (Social media influencers)

 

Misleading / Promotional Marketing Practices

 

An advertisement appeared across social media featuring a promotional code: ‘TREASURE24’ which entitled the bearer to a 24% discount on admissions to Emerald Park over a period of several weeks. Terms and conditions were not referenced.

 

Four complaints were received regarding the promotion. The four complainants tried to avail of the discount but were told it was no longer available. One

complainant was told by a staff member of Emerald Park that the promotion had

ceased approximately halfway through the advertised campaign.

 

Upheld 4.1, 4.4, 5.4, 5.5, 5.11, and 5.12 https://www.asai.ie/complaint/leisure-33/
 

Free Now

 

Transport (Buses exterior) and Instagram

 

Misleading / Substantiation

 

The advertisement which appeared on bus exteriors featured an image of a man leaning

out of a car door.

 

The text accompanying the image read “EARN UP TO €1,300 a WEEK. FREENOW

The Mobility Super APP”

 

The advertisement on Instagram featured similar text: “EARN UP TO €1,300 a WEEK. FREENOW

Take full control of your time and your earnings. Drive your way to €1,300 a week”.

 

33 complaints were received in relation to the advertisement.

 

Issue 1:

The majority of complaints were from taxi drivers. The complainants believed the earning potential referenced in the advertisement was misleading. The complainants said the figure mentioned was not achievable and gave a false impression that those working in the taxi industry were earning more than their actual income. They claimed it would not be possible to make this amount of money per week without working additional hours.

 

Issue 2:

Some complainants considered that the amount referenced in the advertisement was

misleading as it wasn’t stated whether the amount referenced was net or gross. They

said it also appeared that additional deductions such as commission to the

advertisers and additional costs such as fuel, licence fees etc., may not have been taken into consideration when referencing earning potential.

 

The ASAI Executive undertook a basic analysis of the information provided which showed that 93% was split nearly equally between €0 – €499 and €500 – €1,0000, with

10% having earned between €1,000 and €1,299. The remainder, 7%, earned more than

€1,300.

 

 

Issue 1:

Upheld

Issue 2:

Upheld in Part

The committee noted that those who signed up for the platform were categorised as ‘sole traders’ and would therefore be responsible for their own tax affairs and costs such as fuel etc. However, the advertisement did not make it clear that the ‘up to’ figure would have to take account of the app commission that was deducted from driver earnings.

 

4.1, 4.5, 4.9 and 4.10

https://www.asai.ie/complaint/employment-opportunities-5/
Phonewatch Radio Misleading / Substantiation / Promotional Marketing Practices  

A radio advertisement for Phonewatch claimed that installing a Phonewatch alarm for €49 makes your home “four times less likely to be burgled”, “four times more secure” and makes your loved ones “four times safer”. The advertisement also stated, “Hurry, offer ends soon.”

 

Issue 1:

The complainants considered that the claim “four times safer” was misleading as no

information had been provided as to what it was four times safer than. One complainant

considered it was incorrect to say that if your risk of being burgled was reduced by four times, this would result in you would be four times safer.

 

Issue 2:

The complainants considered that the reference to an offer ending “soon” was ambiguous and could cause a consumer to rush to purchase the

alarm.

 

Issue 3:

One complainant considered that the advertisement was unclear as to what the price of €49 quoted was for.

 

 

Issue 1:

Upheld

Issues 2 and 3:

Not Upheld

 

4.1 and 4.4 https://www.asai.ie/complaint/business-home-security-2/
Castleblaney Credit Union Limited Online (Company Own Website) Misleading / Substantiation  

The advertisement which featured a rear and side view of a white car referred to the

following:

“Members only car draw”

 

The advertisement featured a number of statements including:

“The draw is open to all members of Castleblayney Credit Union aged 18 years and over, subject to payment of the relevant draw fee” and “All our participating members stand a chance to win this amazing prize. All you have to do is complete a Car Draw form and return it to us in the office.”

 

Issue 1:

The complainant said that it was misleading to advertise the draw as a “Car draw” as there

was no car available to those who won the draw.

 

Issue 2:

The complainant said that the advertisement did not appear to state how many draws

would take place or the cost of entry to the draw.

 

 

Issue 1:

Upheld

Issue 2:

Not Upheld

4.1, 4.4, 4.9, 4.10 and 5.16 https://www.asai.ie/complaint/prize-draw/
Intrepid Spirits – Little & Green Online (social media) Alcoholic Drinks  

Posts on the advertiser’s social media account featured a woman in various scenarios.

 

Posts 1 and 2 featured a woman being asked if she had bought a house yet and if she was still single. In one post the woman is shown opening a can and taking a drink. The advertisements suggested Little and Green couldn’t save you from awkward questions / moments over Christmas but could “soften the blow” and “help”.

 

Posts 3 – 7 featured various images of alcoholic products and a variety of hashtags including “#cannedcocktails”,#poitin,” and “#cocktail”.

 

One post featured an image of several young people laughing together while at a formal ball.

 

Issue 1: Posts 1 and 2:

A complainant considered that the two video posts featuring the woman drinking were portraying alcohol as a tool for coping with interpersonal difficulties.

 

They considered that it was both dangerous and inappropriate to

portray alcohol as a tool for social anxiety.

 

Issue 2: Posts 1 – 7:

The ASAI Executive did not consider that the content on the advertiser’s Instagram

account conformed with the alcohol rules of the Code. They referred the

advertisers to Posts 3 – 7 as a sample of content from the page and asked for their comments on the overall compliance of the content from the page and details of procedures in place to ensure compliance of content.

 

Issues 1 and 2:

Upheld

 

3.3, 9.1, 9.4, 9.5a, 9.7(a) and 9.8(b), (g), (h) and (i) https://www.asai.ie/complaint/alcohol-37/

 

 

The ASAI conducts ongoing monitoring of advertising across all media and since 2007, has examined over 27,000 advertisements, with an overall compliance rate of 98 percent. The ASAI Monitoring Service monitors compliance with the Complaints Committee’s adjudications.

 

Media are reminded that advertisements found to be in breach of the Code cannot be accepted for publication.

www.asai.ie

 

Follow The Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland on LinkedIn and Twitter @THE_ASAI

 

 

Vibrant green capsule collection to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day unveiled by Salsa Jeans

  • Beautiful green and gold limited edition Shamrock pin gifted with every purchase in-store and online from March 11th – 17th

 

  • Mother’s Day discount of 20% offered on all items in-store and online from March 1st – 10th

 

February 21st 2024: Salsa Jeans is celebrating their first St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland since opening their two new standalone stores in Liffey Valley and Blanchardstown and to mark Ireland’s national holiday, they have launched a limited edition vibrant green capsule collection that will be the perfect for St. Patrick’s Day.

Salsa Jeans have created the perfect green denim jacket, a stunning item to layer over your outfit while watching the parade. Or if funky and colourful jeans are your thing, bring your outfit to the next level with the green Destiny Push Up flared jeans.

                

         Image 1                                       Image 2

 

 

                       

          Image 4                                           Image 5

 

In the ever-changing Irish weather, a green base layer on March 17th is a must and Salsa Jeans t-shirt with intricate crochet detail is perfect for that pop of colour.

          Image 6

 

To mark their Liffey Valley and Blanchardstown Centre stores’ first St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland, Salsa Jeans are offering a beautiful limited edition Shamrock pin with every purchase in-store and online from March 11th – 17th. This gold and green pin accessory can be added to your green denim jacket or t-shirt and bring a hint of sparkle to your outfit.

 

                  

 With Mothers’ Day approaching, Salsa Jeans will also be offering an amazing 20% discount on all items in-store and online from March 1st – 10th. Salsa Jeans´ Spring / Summer 2024 collection features chic, comfortable and silky fabrics, with some statement pieces that make the ideal gift to the special women in your life.

 

  

      Image 7                       Image 8                 Image 9

Salsa Jean’s St. Patricks’ Day capsule collection and Mothers’ Day offer is available online and in-store at Liffey Valley and Blanchardstown Centre.

All imagery is available to download here.

 

  • Denim Jacket with Dye Effect – €89.95 (1, 2 and 3)
  • Green Destiny Push Up Cropped Flare Jeans – €89.95 (4 and 5)
  • Green T-Shirt with Crochet Pocket – €35.95 (6)
  • True Pink Distressed Jeans – €99.95 (7)
  • Light Denim Pants- €89.95 (8)
  • Satin Finish Blazer – €139.00 (9)

 

For more information visit:

Website: www.salsajeans.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/SalsaJeansOfficial/

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@salsaofficialvideos

Instagram: www.instagram.com/salsajeansofficial

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/salsajeans

Nearly half of Irish people say they have experimented with AI for personal use but are more hesitant to use it in the workplace – new Dye and Durham ‘Ireland Pulse Report’

  • Just over four in ten workers (44%) expect AI to become important in their job over the next five years
  • Over half (58%) feel government agencies would benefit from incorporating more technology into their services
  • Irish consumers are generally more optimistic about the economy in the short term, but nearly half (48%) believe a recession is likely in the next year
  • More consumers (26% in Q4 2023 vs. 19% in Q3 2023) say they are in a better financial position than they were a year ago

 

Almost half of Irish people (44%) say they have experimented with AI or use it regularly for personal use, according to a new report by Dye & Durham, the leading provider of practice management solutions to legal professionals. The Dye & Durham Ireland Pulse Report for Q4 2023, a survey of 1,001 adults in Ireland conducted by YouGov, explores trends in technology, the economy and the property market.

 

While Irish consumers are embracing AI in their personal lives, they are more hesitant to use it in their professional lives, with 35% saying they have experimented with or regularly use AI for professional reasons. The remaining 65% say they have never used AI for professional use.

 

Despite hesitant adoption of AI for professional use, more than three quarters of Irish workers (79%) say technology plays an important or critical role in their day-to-day work. Nearly half (44%) expect AI to become important to the way they do their jobs in the next five years while less than a quarter (23%) are of the opposite opinion. Other technologies expected to emerge as key to their jobs include cloud computing (59% say it will be important), analytics (57%), and 5G (56%).

 

When it comes to technology’s role in the provision of government services, more than half (58%) of Irish consumers say government agencies would benefit from incorporating more technology into their services when asked to choose from a list. Similarly, 53% say the same of doctors / medical practitioners, while 44% and 38% say financial services and lawyers/conveyancers would benefit, respectively.

 

David Nash, Chief Product Officer at Dye & Durham, says: “We’re seeing an interesting adoption pattern when it comes to emerging technologies in Ireland. When it comes to AI, for example, there is broad recognition of its impact on the way we do our jobs, but people are taking an incremental approach to using it themselves, especially for professional purposes.”

“For our customers in the legal sector, this is a very important trend to watch. Their clients are engaging with new technologies and expecting them to take on a bigger role in their lives over time. That has clear implications for how legal services will be delivered in the future.”

 

Near-term economic outlook is positive but nearly half expect a recession in next 12 months

 

The Q4 2023 Ireland Pulse Report also reveals that Irish consumers have a generally positive economic outlook over the near term, with just over half (51%) saying they don’t expect a recession in the next six months. They are also more optimistic about their financial situations than they were in Q3 2023. More respondents (26%) say they’re in a better financial position than they were a year ago (vs. 19% who said the same in Q3 2023). At the same time, fewer respondents (39% in Q4 2023 vs. 48% in Q3 2023) say they are in a worse financial position than they were a year ago.

 

On the other hand, as they look further ahead, more consumers (48%) are expecting a recession in the next 12 months. But just 24% expect to be in a worse financial situation a year from now, and fewer (6% in Q4 2023 vs. 10% in Q3 2023) plan to hold off on property purchasing plans to wait for lower prices.

 

Martha Vallance, Chief Operating Officer at Dye & Durham, says: “Our Pulse Report for Q4 2023 shows encouraging signs when it comes to how Irish consumers are feeling about the economy as a whole. This is good news for small and medium-sized law firms who have been managing through reduced case volume. As consumer optimism grows, so too does the opportunity to capitalize on increased transaction activity. Forward-looking law firms who invest in operational efficiencies now stand to gain the most from these positive indicators.”

 

 

 

Unique Media

Vacancies at Unique Media

Unique Media

PR Senior Account Executive and PR Account Executive

 

Interested in working alongside an enthusiastic and creative team of communications professionals who are results driven and like to have some fun along the way?

Unique Media is a Dublin based strategic communications advisory firm which provides best in class PR, Public Affairs, Brand, Reputation, Social, Influencer Relations, Digital and Event Management services. Our on-site radio and television broadcast studios facilitate Media Training, podcast and video production services as well as VO’s and all other audio-visual requests.

We work across an extremely diverse client roster that covers consumer, corporate, financial, health, fashion, technology, lifestyle, charity and media brands.

We currently have vacancies for a PR Senior Account Executive and a PR Account Executive to join our talented team of communicators. The successful individuals will embrace the fast pace of our dynamic environment, have a strong knowledge of the media and influencer landscape in Ireland and a passion for the latest trends and all things news related. We are looking for capable comms professionals who will bring new ideas to the fore, is confident in delivering outstanding work and is committed to achieving results.

Wondering what it’s like to work with Unique Media? We asked one of our recent team members – and this is what they had to say:

 

“Working with the Unique Media team was such an enjoyable and rewarding experience for me. Importantly, I always felt extremely supported and encouraged when it came to career progression and development. You won’t get a better insight into the entire communications spectrum than at Unique Media, which is why I would definitely recommend applying if you are looking for a fresh and challenging role with a really brilliant and sound team.”

 

Details of how to apply are here:

 

Senior PR Account Executive (REF: PR SAE 1)

 

Interested candidates must have:

  • A proven track record in devising and delivering strong and innovative integrated traditional and digital media campaigns
  • Exceptional contacts across all media sectors and a thorough understanding of the news cycle across all mediums
  • Thorough understanding of social media and digital marketing, with a proven track record in devising and implementing innovative and engaging campaigns
  • A creative mindset that can be applied to campaign brainstorming as well as day to day media relations
  • First class project management and organisational skills and the ability to delegate and manage internal personnel
  • A good problem solver who is able to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment
  • Outstanding verbal, written and aural communications skills
  • Exceptional attention to detail
  • Strong creative mindset
  • Ability to manage client relationships and client budgets in a professional manner
  • Ability to work independently within a dynamic team environment
  • A desire for continued self-development

 

PR Account Executive (Ref: PR AE 1)

 

Interested candidates must have:

 

  • Outstanding verbal, written and aural communications skills
  • A strong interest in the media, influencer and digital landscape in Ireland
  • A passion for keeping up with the latest trends and consumer culture
  • A creative mindset that can be applied to campaign brainstorming as well as day to day media relations
  • Ability to multi-task and manage a variety of responsibilities
  • Solid research skills
  • Exceptional attention to detail
  • A hunger to learn and ability to take direction
  • Desire for continued self-development

 

Please forward applications to [email protected], marked with the relevant reference number, as soon as possible. All applications will be treated in strictest confidence.

 

For more information about Unique Media, please log onto www.uniquemedia.ie

 

-Ends-

Over €3.5 million raised by Christmas FM for charity since it first hit the airwaves 16 years ago

2023 donations reached almost €325,000 for Barnardos, Barretstown, Make-A-

Wish Ireland and Community Foundation Ireland through

‘The Magic of Christmas’ fundraising initiative

 

Christmas FM, Ireland’s favourite festive radio station, which officially ‘Switches Christmas On’ around the country every year, is delighted to announce that it raised €324,000 in 2023 for The Magic of Christmas appeal which raises funds for Barnardos, Barretstown, Make-A-Wish Ireland and a range of children’s charities making a difference in communities through Community Foundation Ireland.

 

This year’s donations are another big step towards Christmas FM’s goal to raise over €1,000,000 between 2022–2024 for the Magic of Christmas appeal. The funds will be used to support 5,000 vulnerable children in our communities affected by traumatic life events such as poverty, abuse, neglect and bereavement, and to assist children whose lives are affected by serious childhood illness.

 

2023’s figure brings the total amount raised by the radio station to over €3.5 million since it began broadcasting 16 years ago. Christmas FM is presented on air each year by up to 100 volunteers who devote hundreds of hours of their time assisted by a core management team.

 

Paul Shepherd, Co-Founder of Christmas FM, says: “We are absolutely delighted to have raised almost €325,000 for The Magic of Christmas appeal. We are incredibly grateful for our devoted listeners and fans who generously donated all throughout the festive season. We would also like to thank Coimisiún na Meán for granting us the license to broadcast Christmas FM across Ireland, and our premier FM sponsors for 2023 – Cadbury, Coca-Cola, and An Post as well as Extra.ie, the official media partner of The Magic of Christmas appeal. We would also like to thank The Clayton Hotel Liffey Valley, who, once again, kindly donated their studio space to the station. Last but not least, a warm thank you to all the team and volunteers who make Christmas FM so special each year.”

 

Commenting on the total amount raised, the charity partners jointly said: “We are extremely grateful to The Magic of Christmas appeal for continuing to work with us as the official charity partners for 2023. The Magic of Christmas appeal does so much for over 5,000 vulnerable children in our communities across Ireland. It is because of Christmas FM’s great work and the generosity of their listeners that €324,000 was raised in 2023. The money raised will have a positive impact on many children who use our services around Ireland and everyone involved should be proud of their contributions to such a worthy cause.”

 

Coimisiún na Meán grants Christmas FM a 30-day temporary sound broadcasting license, which enables the station to broadcast on a range of frequencies throughout the country.

 

Coimisiún na Meán’s Director of Broadcasting, Clare Diamond, said: “We would like to congratulate all involved in Christmas FM for the achievement of another fantastic fundraising result for charities. The service demonstrates once again the power and popularity of radio as a medium to bring people together and, through the generosity and contributions of its sponsors and listeners, to reflect the true spirt of Christmas.”

 

This year, Christmas FM was generously sponsored by the premier FM sponsors Cadbury, Coca-Cola and An Post. Christmas FM was broadcast live from The Clayton Hotel, Liffey Valley.

 

Follow the station on social at:

@christmasfm

Christmas FM – Bringing You the Magic of Christmas

 

Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland releases latest Complaints Bulletin

  • 8 advertisements across online, social media and in app advertising were found to be in breach of the ASAI Code on grounds related to a range of issues including Misleading, Substantiation, Environment, Children, Gambling and Health and Beauty

 

  • In one case the Complaints Committee issued a Statement

 

 

The Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland’s (ASAI) independent Complaints Committee has released its latest Complaints Bulletin, which contains 11 case reports on complaints recently investigated by the organisation.

 

6 of the 11 cases were upheld in full and 2 of the 11 cases were upheld in part. Advertisements across online, social media and in app advertising were found to be in breach of the ASAI Code on grounds related to Misleading, Substantiation, Environment, Children, Gambling and Health and Beauty. One interested party complaint was received and resulted in a Statement being issued with advice for future advertising. The Complaints Committee chose not to uphold two complaints.

 

The Complaints Committee is a completely independent arm of the ASAI and is responsible for considering and adjudicating on complaints submitted by the public, by an organisation, by a Government Department, or any other person or body. The Committee is made up of a range of experts from the advertising, media, education, consumer, and marketing sectors. See further details here – http://www.asai.ie/about-us/complaints-committee

 

Commenting on the latest ASAI rulings, Orla Twomey, Chief Executive of the ASAI, stated:

 

“The latest complaints bulletin from the ASAI shows the scope of the organisation across the Irish advertising industry, and the important role we have ensuring that advertisements are legal, truthful, decent and honest for all Irish consumers across all platforms. The ASAI fully investigates all complaints thoroughly to ensure that advertisers in Ireland are not in breach of the high standards in the ASAI Code.”

 

“The ASAI also provides a free and confidential copy advice service to the advertising industry to help them create responsible ads that adhere to the advertising code. If an advertiser, agency, or medium has any concerns about a marketing communications’ compliance with the ASAI’s Code, they can contact us and avail of the free and confidential copy advice service.”

 

Below is a list of 8 advertisements that have been found to be in breach of the ASAI Code:

 

Advertiser Medium Complaint Category Description Complaint Status Section Breached Link
MoveHome Online (Daft.ie)  

Misleading / Substantiation

 

 

The advertisement was a website listing on Daft.ie relating to the sale of a property in Artane.

 

The complainant considered the advertisement misleading as the house was

advertised as having four bedrooms, however, one of these bedrooms was an attic conversion. The complainant did not consider this was compliant with

planning, building, or fire regulations.

 

Upheld 4.1, 4.4, 4.9 and 4.10 https://www.asai.ie/complaint/property-13/
 

Erin International

 

Online (Company Own Website)

 

Misleading / Substantiation

 

The advertisement on the advertiser’s website described the employees who worked there as “A trusted collective of genealogical and probate research experts”, and described one member of staff as “Recognised throughout Ireland and overseas as a leading figure in the field of international probate research”.

 

Under the FAQ section, the company described themselves as “Ireland’s leading probate research and

tracing firm”.

 

Issue 1

The complainant considered the statement that the named staff member was “a leading figure in the field of international probate research” to be misleading and queried substantiation of the claim.

 

Issue 2

The complainant asked if there was substantiation available for the claim that the company was a leading firm worldwide.

 

Issue 3

The complainant also queried the claim that the advertisers were “Ireland’s leading

probate research company” as they considered them to be relatively new to the market.

 

 

Issues 1 and 3:

Upheld

Issue 2:

Not Upheld

 

 

4.1, 4.4, 4.9 and 4.10

 

 

https://www.asai.ie/complaint/business-services-4/

Livescore In App Gambling / Children  

A banner advertisement in the Livescore app promoted an offer for new users of an

online betting company. The advertisement stated  “Bet €10 & Get €50 in Free Bets”

 

The complainant objected to the advertisement on the grounds that the gambling advertisement was served to

an account registered to an under 18’s user. The complainant set up a profile for their underage son and upon doing so, confirmed they were under 18. Despite this, the app still served gambling advertisements to the under 18’s profile.

 

Upheld 7.6 (a), 10.17 (g) and (i) https://www.asai.ie/complaint/gambling-3/
C&C Group – Budweiser Online (Company Own Website) Misleading / Substantiation /  Environment  

The homepage of the advertisers’ website included information on the advertiser’s use of

renewable electricity and included a number of claims such as: “Budweiser is bringing 100% renewable

electricity to 100 Irish pubs”, “Since January 2021, every single can, bottle, and keg of Budweiser imported into ROI is now brewed with electricity from solar and wind sources” and “Budweiser Brewing Group generates enough renewable electricity to power the brewing operations of not only Budweiser, but also Bud Light, Stella Artois, Corona and Becks.”

 

The webpage also featured a video that included references to Budweiser using

“100 renewable electricity” and “bringing 100% renewable electricity to 100 Irish pubs over the next year.”

 

Issue 1:

The complainant objected to the claim that the products were brewed using 100% renewable electricity as no evidence had been provided for the claim. They said that if the evidence included the use of Guarantees of Origins, then this was misleading as it involved the use of non-renewable electricity being offset and was not, therefore, 100% renewable.

 

Issue 2:

The complainant objected to the claim that Budweiser is bringing 100% renewable electricity to 100 Irish pubs on the grounds that the advertising did not state how the pubs were going to be powered by solar electricity when they were traditionally open at night time.

 

Issue 1: Upheld

Issue 2: Upheld

4.1, 4.4, 4.9, 4.10, 15.2 and 15.5 https://www.asai.ie/complaint/alcohol-35/
Keith’s Cacao Online (Third-Party Social Media) Misleading / Health & Beauty  

A sponsored post on Instagram opened with the title “Your Libido and Cacao” and went on to enumerate the supposed benefits of ceremonial cacao.

 

The post featured videos of women in various poses including one woman reclining and another woman lying down with her arms outstretched over her head holding another woman’s hands.

 

There were a number of captions including:

 

“Did you know that Ceremonial Cacao can help you feel more

sexually confident?”, “Cacao increases your blood circulation and uplifts your mood. It helps you feel more connected, present and open”, and “Ceremonial Cacao can also reduce nervousness and

help you to relax, inspiring you to feel more self-assured and sexy!”.

 

The caption under the video read “Could your libido use a boost? Ceremonial Cacao

increases self- confidence, excitement and your desire for love.”

 

Issue 1:

The complainant considered the advertisement to have made unsubstantiated claims as to the health benefits of ceremonial cacao.

 

Issue 2:

The complainant believed that the advertisement played upon insecurities women may

have concerning their sexual health.

 

Issue 3:

The complainant considered that the advertisement objectified women as sex objects.

 

 

Issue 1: Upheld

Issues 2 and 3:

Not Upheld

 

 

4.1, 4.4, 4.9, 4.10, 8.8 and 8.9

https://www.asai.ie/complaint/food-non-alcoholic-beverages-15/
Rathwood Online (Company Website) Misleading / Substantiation  

The advertisement was a product listing for the Kamado Joe Classic III Barbecue on the advertiser’s website as part of their ‘Warehouse Clearance’ sale. The sale price was listed as €2,139.00 while the price of €4,379.00 was crossed out to reflect the previous higher price.

 

The complainant considered the advertisement misleading as they did not believe that the product had ever been sold at the advertised price of €4,379.00.

 

Upheld 4.1, 4.4, 4.9 and 4.10. https://www.asai.ie/complaint/household-31/
Lifecompare.ie  

 

Online (Company own website) and Social Media (Facebook)

 

Misleading / Substantiation  

Advert 1:

The advertisement on the advertiser’s website featured a number of claims including

“Life insurance is one of the most oversold, yet overcharged products. Rather than use this opportunity to provide an extra level of service and give you the best rate possible, banks and insurance agents use this opportunity to overcharge you on getting peace of

mind and protecting your loved ones.”

 

Advert 2:

A sponsored advert on social media stated:

“YOU CAN GET LIFE INSURANCE FOR LESS THAN €10

Lifecompare.ie”

 

Issue 1 – Advert 2:

The complainant challenged the claim that life insurance cover could be obtained for less than €10 as they did not consider that many people were eligible for a policy with that low a premium.

 

Issue 2 – Advert 1: The complainant objected to the reference that “Banks and insurance agents

use this opportunity to overcharge you” as they considered that it was implying that

consumers were being mis-sold insurance by banks and insurance agents, when such

institutions employ qualified financial advisors.

 

Issue 1: Upheld

Issue 2: Upheld

4.1, 4.4, 4.9, and 4.10 https://www.asai.ie/complaint/financial-insurance-3/
Connacht Whiskey Distillery Online (Company’s Social Media) Misleading / Substantiation  

An image posted on one of the company’s social media page depicted a series of

whiskey stills and casks alongside the text “The Connacht Distillery, Ireland – 150

Years of History”.

 

The complainant considered the advertisement misleading on the basis that it implied the distillery had been in operation for 150 years. The complainant stated

that the CRO showed the company was registered in 2013 and as such could not

have 150 years of history associated with it.

 

Upheld 4.1, 4.4, 4.9 and 4.10. https://www.asai.ie/complaint/alcohol-36/

 

The ASAI received one complaint made by an Intra-industry or Interested Party and chose to issue a statement

 

Advertiser Medium Complaint Category Description Complaint Status Section Breached Link
 

 

National Lottery

 

 

Television

 

Misleading/ Substantiation

 

The television advertisement featured a shopkeeper and a customer. When the

customer placed her lotto ticket on the counter, the shopkeeper stated:

“Did you know that 90% of National Lottery money goes back into the community?”

 

On-screen text at the end of the advertisement stated:

“2020 financials were 58% prizes, 27% good causes, 5% retailer commission”.

 

The complainant considered the advertisement’s statement that 90% of lottery money goes back to the community as misleading as this figure included unclaimed prize money which was diverted to incremental marketing and advertising of the National Lottery.

 

 

Statement Issued

 

N/A

https://www.asai.ie/complaint/36622/

 

 

The ASAI chose to not uphold two complaints

 

Advertiser Medium Complaint Category Description Complaint Status Section Breached Link
Vodafone

 

Television

 

 

 

Misleading / Environmental Claims

 

 

 

The advertisement showed two skateboarders taking pictures of nature including a flower and a bird on a phone and sending the photos to each other. The skateboarders then met up, interacted with the nature around them and showed each other the photos they took on the featured phone.

 

The voiceover of the advertisement made the following statement:

When you see nature like this, you’ll want to protect it. Capture incredible detail on the

new iPhone 14 pro”.

 

The complainant considered the advertisement misleading as it implied that using

a device that relied on rare earth minerals (a smartphone) would somehow help nature

when in fact the consumption of such devices was destroying nature.

 

Not-Upheld  

N/A

 

https://www.asai.ie/complaint/telecommunications-94/
Britvic – MiWadi Television  

Misleading / Substantiation / Food

 

A television advertisement featured two children sitting at a kitchen table during various occasions including breakfast time, a party and dinner time, with various quantities of MiWadi on the table during each occasion.

 

The voiceover stated –

“Enjoy a MiWadi at breakfast time, party time or dinner time…Anytime is MiWadi time.”

 

On screen text stated:

“Consume as part of a balanced diet and active lifestyle. MiWadi concentrates

contain at least 9% fruit juice.

No added sugar. Fortified with Vitamin D.”

 

Issue 1:

The complainant considered that the claim “no added

Sugar” was misleading as the product contained artificial sweeteners such as sucralose.

 

Issue 2:

The complainant considered the advertisement was directed at children as it had aired in the early evening (approx. 7.30pm) and took issue as parents may not know the negative impact of sweeteners.

 

Issue 3:

The complainant objected to the portrayal and quantities of the product shown at

breakfast time and questioned how this portrayed a balanced diet.

 

 

Issues 1, 2 and 3:

Not Upheld

 

N/A https://www.asai.ie/complaint/food-non-alcoholic-beverages-16/

 

The ASAI conducts ongoing monitoring of advertising across all media and since 2007, has examined over 27,000 advertisements, with an overall compliance rate of 98 percent. The ASAI Monitoring Service monitors compliance with the Complaints Committee’s adjudications.

 

Media are reminded that advertisements found to be in breach of the Code cannot be accepted for publication.

www.asai.ie

 

Follow The Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland on LinkedIn and Twitter @THE_ASAI

4.9% increase in value of property outside of Dublin expected over next 12 months by estate agents – The Sunday Times ‘Nationwide Property Price Guide’

  • House prices in Kerry could rise by as much as 15%, while prices in Kilkenny and Laois could see an increase of 10%

 

  • The majority of counties are predicted to experience growth in values while Monaghan, Louth and Co. Westmeath will remain static

 

  • It’s now cheaper to buy than build in Wexford, Waterford, Mayo and Offaly – with strong competition for second hand homes

 

  • Mohill, Ballinamore and Castlerea among most affordable areas for three bed semi-detached houses

 

  • Greystones, Ballinlough and Model Farm Road named as three most expensive areas for a three bed semi nationwide 

 

  • Returning emigrants with savings and cash buyers from Dublin and commuter counties are pricing out locals

 

 House prices nationwide are set to rise even further this year, with estate agents predicting an average rise of 4.9% over the next 12 months, according to the 2024 Sunday Times Property Price Guide, a dedicated 32-page supplement which will be published free with the Sunday Times this Sunday, 21st January.

 

The Sunday Times Property Price Guide is the authoritative guide to the Irish property market, featuring interviews with a number of Ireland’s estate agents who outline their predictions for the year.

 

House prices in Kerry could rise by up to 15%, while Kilkenny and Laois could also see values increase by 10%. The overwhelming majority of counties are predicted to experience growth in values during 2024, with just a few areas remaining static. These include Monaghan (0%), Louth (0–5%)  and Co. Westmeath (0-7%)

 

Estate agents across Ireland are predicting the following price increases in residential property values:

 

  1. Waterford – 10%
  2. Kerry – 4-15%
  3. Kilkenny – 8-10%
  4. Laois – 5-10%
  5. Roscommon – 7-8%
  6. North Co. Tipperary – 7.5%
  7. North Co. Cork – 6-7%
  8. Galway City – 5-7%
  9. Co. Longford – 6%
  10. Co. Cavan – 5%
  11. Cork City North – 5%
  12. East Co. Cork – 5%
  13. Co. Leitrim – 5%
  14. Co. Mayo – 5%
  15. Co. Offaly – 5%
  16. Sligo town – 5%
  17. South Co. Tipperary – 5%
  18. Co. Wexford – 5%
  19. Co. Meath – 4-5%
  20. Co. Carlow – 3-5%
  21. Co. Donegal – 3-5%
  22. Co. Kildare – 3-5%
  23. Limerick City – 4%
  24. South Co. Wicklow – 4%
  25. Co. Galway – 2-5%
  26. Co. Westmeath – 0-7%
  27. Cork City – 3%
  28. West Co. Cork – 3%
  29. Co. Limerick – 2-3%
  30. Co. Louth – 0-5%
  31. North Co. Wicklow – 2-3%
  32. Co. Monaghan – 0%

 

The cost of building and renovating, the trickle of properties coming to the market along with the tightening of planning laws are all factors affecting price values. It is now cheaper to buy than to build in the likes of Wexford, Waterford, Mayo and Offaly. There is strong competition for second hand homes with buyers willing to consider fixer-uppers despite the huge costs involved in renovation projects.

 

Second-hand bungalows are back on trend, appealing to downsizers in rural towns and villages across Ireland. Buyers in Donegal are seeking properties from the 70’s unaffected by Mica while remote workers are looking for bargain properties in Sligo.

 

Motivated first time buyers are taking advantage of government incentives to get their foot on the property ladder. However, many have reservations about the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant given the 10-year occupancy clause or are underestimating the amount of work needed and the cost, while some are planning to tackle construction themselves.

 

Returning emigrants with savings and cash buyers from Dublin and commuter counties are pricing out locals from the area. However, the National Broadband Plan has been a game changer for many rural counties as buyers seek more space, home office potential, and a better quality of life in rural counties and coastal areas.

 

The Sunday Times Property Price Guide 2024 reveals that the top five most affordable areas for three-bed semi-detached houses are:

 

  1. Mohill, Co Leitrim (€155,000)
  2. Ballinamore, Co Leitrim (€160,000)
  3. Castlerea, Co Roscommon (€160,000)
  4. Ballyconnell, Co Cavan (€160,000)
  5. Strokestown, Co Roscommon (€165,000)

 

The top five most expensive areas for three-bed semi-detached houses are:

 

  1. Greystones, North Co Wicklow (€605,000)
  2. Ballinlough, Cork City (€490,000)
  3. Model Farm Road, Cork City (€490,000)
  4. Naas, Co Kildare (€480,000)
  5. Blackrock, Cork City South (€475,000)

 

Róisín Healy, Deputy Features Editor of Sunday Times Ireland, says:

“The rental crisis, the cost of building and renovation works and the persistent lack of supply is leaving the property market nationwide at a standstill. This is having a real impact across all age cohorts and at every end of the market, as people struggle to rightsize. This is affecting first time buyers, growing families and older people who wish to trade down. The scarcity of homes to buy and to rent is a massive concern across every county.

 

For full details, pick up a copy of The Sunday Times this weekend or online at thesundaytimes.ie/propertyprices

 

 

For more information visit thesundaytimes.ie/propertyprices

or follow The Sunday Times Ireland on Twitter @ST__Ireland, Instagram @sundaytimesireland,

Facebook @thesundaytimesIE and LinkedIn @The Sunday Times Ireland