New Irish Fintech company Global Health Capital unveils AI-Powered funding platform designed exclusively for medical professionals

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  • Business set to transform how hospital consultants, doctors and practice owners access and manage flexible financial solutions tailored to their specific needs

 

  • Global Health Capital is underpinned by funding partner Santiago Capital, with advanced plans in place to roll out the service across Europe

 

Global Health Capital (GHC), a new Irish fintech innovator, has announced the official launch of its AI-powered funding platform designed exclusively for medical professionals across Europe.

 

By combining a unique blend of financial expertise, advanced technology innovation and deep healthcare industry knowledge, Global Health Capital is transforming how hospital consultants, doctors and practice owners access and manage flexible financial solutions tailored to their specific needs.

 

Unlike traditional financial institutions who apply generic lending criteria, GHC uses a proprietary AI-driven funding platform that evaluates medical credentials, specialty and experience. This approach delivers fast, flexible funding solutions that align with how medical professionals actually work – accommodating the long payment cycles that often exist in the healthcare sector.

 

Whether supporting a hospital consultant managing insurance payment delays, helping a GP modernise their practice, or financing a network of practices, GHC’s innovative financial products align with healthcare cash flow patterns and eliminate excessive administrative burden, allowing these professionals to focus on what matters most – delivering exceptional patient care.

 

Founded by seasoned MedTech professional David Crimmins and Graham Byrne, who has significant expertise in capital deployment, Global Health Capital is headquartered in Dublin and serves medical professionals in Ireland, with advanced plans to roll out the service across Europe.

 

The business is underpinned by funding partner Santiago Capital, who are providing a substantial funding line for the first phase of deployment.

 

David Crimmins, Co-Founder of Global Health Capital, says: “Global Health Capital was born from a clear recognition of a crucial gap in the financial market—a lack of specialist providers delivering tailored financial solutions to the medical sector.

 

Medical professionals often face delayed insurance payments and cash-flow pressures that traditional banks don’t understand. Our AI-powered platform recognises those unique challenges and delivers funding that fits their professional realities. By aligning our solutions with real healthcare cash-flow patterns, we remove the stress of funding gaps and administrative burdens. As a result, we offer healthcare professionals the financial flexibility they need to focus on what matters most—delivering exceptional patient care.”

 

Graham Byrne, Co-Founder of Global Health Capital, says: “Medical professionals are being totally underserved by traditional financial institutions who fail to understand their unique needs and challenges. David and I have combined our unique, complementary skill sets to address this gap and create a financial institution dedicated exclusively to medical professionals.

 

My experience lies in specialist lending and financial innovation, including building significant financial institutions from the ground up and developing them into respected market leaders, while David’s deep healthcare sector knowledge and senior operational expertise across multiple medical organisations means he totally understands the day-to-day realities and financial challenges that healthcare professionals face. Together, we are transforming how medical professionals access and manage the financial resources they need to grow and thrive.”

 

Co-created with medical professionals, Global Health Capital’s product suite* is designed to meet their real-world needs:

  • MediFlow – A 90-day pre-approved revolving line of funding that bridges the gap between invoicing and reimbursement, with funds typically released within 24 hours. Customers only pay for what they use and can roll balances forward for continued flexibility.
  • MediFlex – A flexible credit line secured on a clinic’s credit card terminal receipts, ideal for unexpected cash-flow issues or seasonal fluctuations. Repayments are automatically taken from future credit card receipts, eliminating administrative overhead.
  • MediFix – A multi-year term loan facility with predictable monthly repayments to facilitate higher amounts for practice expansion, acquisitions, or investment in new medical technologies.

 

Irish customers must be registered with the Irish Medical Council, based in Ireland and operate as a sole trader, partnership, or incorporated medical practice.

 

Global Health Capital – the trusted financial partner for medical professionals at every stage of their career

 

www.GlobalHealthCapital.com

The Shackleton Experience, Athy, Co. Kildare, dedicated to the life of Kildare-born polar explorer Ernest Shackleton, reopens following €7.5 million investment by Kildare County Council and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht

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  • The only institution in the world dedicated to the life of Ernest Shackleton, the Shackleton Experience has over 200 artefacts – including the actual wooden cabin in which he died

 

  • Discover Shackleton’s inspiring legacy from his Kildare roots to the vast polar ice caps via immersive interactive experiences, sensory effects and recreated environments that bring his extraordinary journey to life

 

  • Historic Town Hall building in the heart of Athy now features a glass ‘iceberg’ extension and new research studio which will support international polar scholars from across the world

 

The Shackleton Experience in Athy, Co. Kildare, the only institution in the world dedicated to the extraordinary life and achievements of Ernest Shackleton, the legendary polar explorer who was born just outside Athy, has reopened to the public following a €7.5 million redevelopment.

 

Funded by the Department of Rural Community and Development and the Gaeltacht (DRCDG) under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund and Kildare County Council, the museum has been transformed into a world-class visitor attraction that combines the largest collection of Shackleton artefacts in the world with cutting-edge technology and immersive, interactive exhibits.

 

Born in Kilkea, just outside Athy in 1874, Ernest Shackleton’s extraordinary story is brought to life at the Shackleton Experience through dramatic digital storytelling, sensory effects and recreated environments that offer visitors the chance to step into his world.

 

Visitors can trace Shackleton’s inspiring journey from his Kildare roots to the vast Polar ice caps, capturing the determination and leadership that defined his legacy. They can also explore in detail the three expeditions he led to the Antarctic, including the legendary Endurance expedition (1914–1917) where Shackleton managed to bring the entire crew home safely without the loss of a single life after their ship sank in a frozen sea hundreds of miles from civilisation.

 

As part of the redevelopment by Kildare County Council, a dramatic glass extension in the shape of an iceberg has been added to the venue, which is housed in Athy’s historic Town Hall, a 300-year-old building on Emily Square. The square is also home to the iconic statue of Ernest Shackleton.

 

Visitors can look forward to seeing:

  • The actual cabin in which Ernest Shackleton died of a heart attack on the ship ‘Quest’ during the Shackleton-Rowett Expedition in 1922
  • The sledge and harness used on the Nimrod Expedition
  • Replica models of the Endurance and Quest ships as well as the James Caird lifeboat that rescued the crew after the Endurance shipwreck
  • A deeply immersive experience that allows visitors join the crew of the Endurance as they make their remarkable escape from the ice-bound ship, with crashing waves and wind effects making the journey feel as real as possible
  • A reconstructed 1920’s cinema showcasing archival footage and historic clips of Shackleton’s various expeditions and activities, bringing his amazing story vividly to life

Additionally, the Shackleton Experience examines the polar regions today, highlighting the escalating impact of climate change on Antarctica and beyond. A dedicated research studio has been developed to support this, with archive storage and study facilities that will host polar scholars from around the world.

 

There is also a specially designed children’s tour for pre-teens, helping younger visitors connect with the spirit of optimism, patience, idealism and courage that defined Shackleton.

Visitors can relax with a coffee at the new ‘Ernie’s @ Shackleton Experience’ café and explore a selection of new retail offerings alongside ‘The Athy Story’ – a free exhibition exploring the rich history of the town from medieval times up to the 18th century. It includes the ‘Rent Table’, one of the earliest surviving known examples of Renaissance art in Ireland and a nationally significant artefact.

 

Cathaoirleach of the County of Kildare, Cllr Carmel Kelly said; “The Shackleton Experience project is a great example of co-operation between National and Local Government, and one of many underway or already delivered as part of the development of the public realm in Athy. Ernest Shackleton was a Kildare native, and a world class experience, like this one, dedicated to him, his crew and his endeavours is a fitting tribute.”

 

Speaking at the opening of the Shackleton Experience, Minister Calleary said, “Having extended and modernised the Athy Heritage Centre in this impressive 300-year-old former town hall, this unique experience now showcases the most prominent collection of Shackleton memorabilia in the world. The Shackleton Experience will undoubtedly become a focal point for tourists in Athy and support the goal to make the town centre a vibrant and attractive place for tourists and local residents alike.”

 

The Minister continued: “I am delighted to see that there is space included to facilitate opportunities for research and education. It is essential that we invest in projects like this to ensure that town centres, like Athy, are vibrant, attractive and more resilient places to live, work, raise a family and invest in.  The Shackleton Experience will help deliver on this.”

 

The Minister concluded: “I am delighted that my department was able to provide grant funding of over €5.2 million for this project to Kildare County Council under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund. The Fund is a key Government measure to deliver projects across rural Ireland driving the resilience and regeneration of our towns.”

 

Sonya Kavanagh, Chief Executive, Kildare County Council added; “This initiative has been accomplished through a strong funding partnership between Kildare County Council and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund.  This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strategic investment that not only enhances our cultural infrastructure but also serves as a catalyst for long-term community development and regional vitality.”

 

“In Kildare County Council, we’re immensely proud to have been able to deliver this state-of-the-art visitor experience, which has been a labour of love for our team, and everyone involved, over the last number of years.”

Commenting on the redevelopment, Aline FitzGerald, General Manager of the Shackleton Experience, said: “We are delighted to welcome the public back following a major redevelopment of the museum. Ernest Shackleton remains one of the most legendary polar explorers in history, and our aim is to celebrate both his remarkable achievements and his Kildare roots.”

“Throughout this process, we have worked closely with conservation officers and heritage bodies to preserve the integrity of the 300-year-old Town Hall while enhancing the visitor experience for both national and international guests. The redevelopment will bring Shackleton’s story to life with cutting-edge technology, while also highlighting the ongoing impacts of climate change on our polar regions.”

“Our artefact collection, carefully curated over many years, reflects Shackleton’s extraordinary life and legacy. We are proud to be the only institution in the world dedicated to him and to sharing his story with generations to come.”

The annual internationally recognised ‘Shackleton Autumn School’ will take place from the 24th October – 26th October 2025 and will feature talks, workshops and events to celebrate Shackleton’s legacy.

Located less than an hour from Dublin and served by regular trains from Dublin’s Heuston Station, the Shackleton Experience in Athy, Co. Kildare is easily accessible from surrounding counties including Carlow, Laois, and Kilkenny.

 

The Shackleton Experience – Unmissable for families, schools, polar enthusiasts, culture and

history fans as well as adventure and endurance sports devotees

 

Visit shackletonexperience.ie to learn more about the Shackleton Experience

 

To keep up to date with the Shackleton Experience, follow:

Instagram        @ShackletonExperienceAthy             

Facebook         @shackletonexperienceathy

LinkedIn          @Shackleton Experience Athy

X                      @ShackletonAthy

An Post renews headline sponsorship of the Irish Book Awards until 2027 marking a decade of support

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An Post has renewed its headline sponsorship agreement of the annual Irish Book Awards, one of Ireland’s most distinguished and popular literary events. First partnering with the initiative in 2018, this new agreement extends the sponsorship through to 2027, marking a decade of support from An Post for Irish literature and the prestigious awards.

 

Now celebrating its 20th year, the An Post Irish Book Awards promotes Irish writing to the widest range of readers possible. Each year it brings together a vast community passionate about books – readers, authors, booksellers, publishers and librarians – to recognise the very best of Irish writing talent.

 

The awards feature a diverse mix of exceptional writing from new and established writers across 18 categories, including Novel of the Year, Children, History, Crime Fiction, Popular Fiction, Non-fiction, Sports, Lifestyle, Short Story, Irish language, Poem, Newcomer, Teen and Young Adult, Irish Published and Biography.

 

Hundreds of books are submitted for consideration annually and, over the past 20 years, an array of new and established domestic and international authors have graced the Irish Book Awards stage including Catherine Ryan Howard, Paul Murray, Marian Keyes, Donal Ryan, Cecelia Ahern, Louise O’Neill, Graham Norton, Judi Curtin, Oliver Jeffers, Jane Casey, Joseph O’Connor, Sally Rooney, Roddy Doyle, Liz Nugent, Tana French, Sinead Gleeson, and Paul Howard.

 

In addition to category winners, a very special award is also announced at the event. The Bob Hughes Lifetime Achievement Award recognises the contribution of distinguished Irish writers and poets, and winners have included Martin Waddell, Anne Enright, Sebastian Barry, Colm Toibín, Thomas Kinsella, Eavan Boland, John Montague, JP Donleavy, Paul Durcan, John Banville, Maeve Binchy, John McGahern, Edna O’Brien, William Trevor and Séamus Heaney.

 

David McRedmond, CEO at An Post, says: “We are proud to renew An Post’s sponsorship of the Irish Book Awards, marking a decade of support for Ireland’s world-leading literary community. The elevation of excellence, and acting for the common good are core to An Post’s mission, and there is no more fitting alignment than with Ireland’s great authors, publishers, and booksellers.”

 

Larry McHale, Chair of the Irish Book Awards Board says:

“We are delighted that An Post will continue its sponsorship of the Irish Book Awards through to December 2027. Since joining us, An Post has been an invaluable partner in our shared mission to promote reading and celebrate the exceptional talent of Ireland’s writers and illustrators, both new and established. The Irish Book Awards has become a cornerstone of the literary calendar, bringing together the entire Irish book community each year. This renewed commitment marks a decade of support, and we look forward to continuing this meaningful partnership as the Awards go from strength to strength.”

 

The full shortlist for the An Post Irish Book Awards 2025 will be announced on 22nd October, while the winners will be presented with their trophies at the An Post Irish Book Awards event in the Convention Centre Dublin, on the 27th November.. A television programme will be broadcast on RTÉ One television in December, culminating in one of the 2025 winning titles being announced as the ‘An Post Irish Book of the Year 2025’.

 

www.anpostirishbookawards.ie

 

Instagram:       @irishbookawards

TikTok:             @irishbookawards

Bluesky:          @irishbookawards.bsky.social

X:                     @irishbookaward

Facebook:        IrishBookAwards

 

‘An Post Bookshop of the Year’ longlist revealed for 2025

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  • Twelve bookshops around Ireland selected for the ‘An Post Bookshop of the Year’ longlist

 

  • Shortlist of six bookshops will be revealed on October 22nd with the overall winner announced at the An Post Irish Book Awards on November 27th

 

12 bookshops across the country have been longlisted for the ‘An Post Bookshop of the Year’ category at this year’s An Post Irish Book Awards, the annual literary event that celebrates and promotes Irish writing and authors to the widest range of readers possible.

 

The ‘An Post Bookshop of the Year’ category is designed to acknowledge the significant role played by independent bookshops and local branches of bookshop chains in helping their local communities to find and savour the titles of their choice. Previous winners include:

 

  • Little Acorns Bookstore, Derry – 2024
  • Halfway Up the Stairs in Greystones – 2023
  • Bridge Street Books, Wicklow – 2022
  • Kennys Bookshop and Art Gallery, Galway – 2021

The longlist of twelve bookshops around Ireland for 2025 in alphabetical order are:

  • Antonia’s Bookstore, Trim, Co. Meath
  • Bridge Books Dromore, Co. Down
  • Castle Book & Card Centre Castlebar, Co. Mayo
  • Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop, Co. Galway
  • Chapters Bookstore, Dublin 1
  • Genius Juniors, Ennis, Co. Clare
  • Leaf and Bower, Ballincollig, Co. Cork
  • Liber Bookshop, Sligo town
  • Tales for Tadpoles, Bray, Co. Wicklow
  • The Book Centre, Waterford
  • The Company of Books Ranelagh, Dublin 6
  • The Maynooth Bookshop, Co. Kildare

Customers were asked to vote for their favourite bookshops and explain the reason for their choice. The bookshops that received the most votes were then longlisted and have been invited by the judges to enter a written submission. For more information on the process, visit https://www.irishbookawards.ie/an-post-bookshop-of-the-year/

 

The shortlist of six bookshops will now be selected by an independent judging panel, the judges for 2025 area:

  • Judging Chair – Maria Dickenson – Chair of Irish Booksellers Association
  • Tony Purdue – Key Account Director at HarperCollins Publishers
  • Sheila O’Reilly – Project Manager for Booksellers Association
  • Jenni Doherty – Owner of Little Acorns Bookstore, last year’s winner of the An Post Bookshop of the Year
  • Ronan Richmond – Sales Director at Argosy Wholesale
  • Angus Laverty – Public Affairs Manager at An Post
  • Bert Wright – Irish Book Awards Project Administrator and former bookseller

The shortlist will be officially announced on the 22nd October. The overall winner of ‘An Post Bookshop of the Year’ will be presented with their trophy at the An Post Irish Book Awards event on 27th November along with a prize worth €15,000 from An Post Commerce.

 

Each year, the An Post Irish Book Awards bring together a vast community passionate about books – readers, authors, booksellers, publishers and librarians – to recognise the very best of new and established Irish writing talent and 2025 will be no different. Other categories in the An Post Irish Book Awards include Novel of the Year, Children’s (Junior and Senior), Crime Fiction, Popular Fiction, Non-fiction, Sports, Short Story, Poem, History, Teen and Young Adult and Irish Language.

 

Larry Mac Hale, Chairperson of the An Post Irish Book Awards, says:

“Bookshops are the cornerstone of many communities across Ireland, and this category was established to honour the central role they play – not only within the book trade, but in celebrating Ireland’s extensive literary heritage. More than just shops, they are cultural havens that spark creativity and foster a love of reading for people of all ages. We are proud to support this award and delighted to see such worthy bookshops on the longlist. Our warmest congratulations and best wishes to them all.”

 

Maria Dickenson, Chair of Bookselling Ireland, says:

“For generations, Irish bookshops have been an essential part of our culture. They offer welcoming spaces where readers can explore and celebrate stories of every kind. Booksellers play a crucial role in Ireland’s literary landscape, bringing people and books together in ways that truly matter. It’s inspiring to see their dedication recognised, and the 2025 longlist reflects that passion and diversity.”

 

Commenting on the important role bookshops play in local communities, Garrett Bridgeman, Managing Director of An Post Mails & Parcels says:  “Bookshops are at the heart of every community, connecting people with stories and each other. At An Post, we are proud to support these local champions who inspire a love of reading, nurture creativity, and help Irish authors reach readers nationwide. The dedication and passion shown by bookshops across Ireland is truly remarkable, and we congratulate all those longlisted for this year’s award.”

 

For further information, please visit to the An Post Irish Book Awards website or social media

channels:

www.anpostirishbookawards.ie

Facebook: @AnPostIBAS

Instagram: @anpost_irishbookawards

Twitter: @AnPostIBAS

“Creating a campaign for An Garda Síochána is a job worth doing” – Core launch nationwide recruitment drive sharing Gardaí’s real stories

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Core is proud to have developed a dramatic new recruitment campaign for An Garda Síochána, for their 2025 intake. As part of the Programme for Government, there is a need to recruit 5,000 Gardaí over the next five years and An Garda Síochána’s Trainee Recruitment campaign was delivered to support this.

 

The campaign uses their previous creative platform ‘It’s a job worth doing’ but digs deeper into the moments that stick with you when you’re in uniform. It showcases a series of short dramatic moments, depicting elements of the job that can be very challenging, but ultimately rewarding.

 

Creative Director Helena Jones says

“We wanted to continue to tell real Gardaí’s authentic stories, only this time using a snippet of a memory; a moment in time where the adrenalin is pumping and where they made a real difference. These are the moments that make it all worthwhile. It’s important to show that it really isn’t easy, but that it makes a huge difference and gives you a real sense of purpose.

It’s a job worth doing for us as an agency, too. We’re so proud to play just a small part in helping them.”

 

There are a lot of people who won’t have ever considered the range of jobs available – from dogs and horses to armed response – or know that the Gardaí increased the application age to 50 last year. The campaign includes a series of VOD and social ads, press, radio, OOH, and posters in various languages.

 

ASU: www.youtube.com/watch?v=7bukA9pGrDY

Dog Unit: https://youtu.be/IWgN6tPVO1o?si=DwnVBCAAmCxcVunV

Community: https://youtu.be/pCvWnqZC7lw?si=pMDFcNnfYln1UgZz

 

Credits

Advertiser: An Garda Síochána

Agency: Core Creative/Spark Foundry

Campaign title: It’s a Job Worth Doing

Creative Directors: Helena Jones, Craig Robinson

Art Director: Helena Jones

Copywriter: Craig Robinson

Business Director: Jo Mullins

Agency Producer: Anita McMenamin

Junior Producer: Jessica Hopkins

Managing Director: Dave Griffin

Production Company: Rubber Duck

Directors: Conor Ryan and Ben Colwell

Producers: Jenni Barry Duke, Helen Barry Duke and Eoghan Ryan

DOP: Aidan Gault

Editor: Colman Angle, Rubber Duck

Colourist: Leandro Arouca, Raygun

Sound Design & Mix: Dean Jones & Jordan Mullen, Scimitar Sound

Photography: Barry McCall

Social housing vacancy rates have decreased to 2.75% while re-letting times and costs continue to rise

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New figures contained in 2024 ‘Local Authority Performance Indicator Report’

from National Oversight and Audit Commission

 

  • 4,251 local authority housing units were vacant at the end of 2024

 

  • €105.1 million spent by local authorities on re-letting costs for 3,375 units

 

  • The average time for re-letting for social housing was 35.36 weeks – the highest recorded since 2014

 

  • 2,634 units were retrofitted under the Social Housing Retrofit programme in 2024

 

  • All updates on Housing, Roads, Water, Waste and Environment, Planning, Fire Service, Library / Recreation, Youth and Community, Corporate, Finance and Economic Development included in report here – https://we.tl/t-QShVEygdfs

 

Published today, the latest Local Authority Performance Indicator Report from the National Oversight and Audit Commission (NOAC), Ireland’s independent statutory body responsible for overseeing the performance of the local government sector and assessing how local authorities’ deliver for their communities across the country, reports on 46 indicators over 11 key areas.

 

This is the eleventh edition of the annual report offering over a decade of data, trends and research. It provides local authorities, government departments and citizens across Ireland with a valuable benchmarking tool, enabling them to compare performance with authorities of equivalent scale and size.

 

The average social housing vacancy rate in 2024 decreased from 2.81% in 2023 to 2.75%, with 4,251 units vacant at the end of 2024. The lowest vacancy rates were recorded in Laois (0.80%), Wexford (0.94%) and Westmeath (1.23%) while seven other local authorities reported vacancy rates of less than 2%. However, 14 authorities were above the national average of 2.75% including Kilkenny (6.93%) Carlow (5.85%) and Cork County (4.78%).

 

€105,084,976.65 was spent last year in re-letting costs for 3,375 units. The average cost for re-letting was €31,136.29 and the average time for re-letting was 35.36 weeks – the highest recorded since 2014. The longest average re-letting time across the six urban authorities was Galway City (48.83 weeks) followed by Fingal (33.76 weeks).

 

A new indicator introduced in last year’s report, the H7 Social Housing Retrofit, tracks progress towards the national target of retrofitting 36,500 local authority properties to a B2 Building Energy Rating (BER) or Cost Optimal equivalent by 2030. However, NOAC expressed concern that this target is unlikely to be met.

 

The data gathered for the Local Authority Performance Indicator Report informs NOAC of local government performance across core services and, alongside validation and scrutiny meetings, enables assessment and analysis of that performance. The report highlights areas of improvement as well as those requiring further attention, with the scrutiny process playing a central role. In 2025, this process was updated to strengthen the review of local authority performance, placing greater emphasis on detailed analysis and structured engagement between each authority’s senior management and the NOAC board.

 

Other insights from the report include:

 

  • Five local authorities showed a deficit on the Revenue Account at the end of 2024, one less than 2023
  • 390.0km of regional roads and 2,332.1km of local roads were strengthened in 2024
  • 81.94% of motor tax transactions were conducted online
  • 2,459 jobs created nationally in 2024 with assistance of Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) – an increase of 328 on previous year
  • Four of the six full time fire brigades improved their average mobilisation times for fire emergencies in 2024 and five improved their average mobilisation times for other non-fire emergencies compared to 2023
  • The total number of library visits in 2024 was 15,460,242 and the number of items issued to members increased by 7.6% compared to 2023’s figure to 17,453,626 – the highest figure since 2016
  • 76,190 pollution complaints were made to local authorities in 2024
  • 271,785.61 days were lost to certified sick leave in local authorities during 2024
  • 32,273.76 whole-time equivalent staff were employed by local authority sector at end of 2024, an increase of 568.82 on the previous year

 

While NOAC does not set policy, provide funding or impose sanctions, its independent oversight ensures that local authorities are accountable, open and focused on future growth. NOAC is committed to working collaboratively and publishing evidence-based reports that help ensure Ireland’s local authorise deliver effectively in the best interests of communities nationwide.

 

Commenting on the report’s findings, Michael McCarthy, Chair of NOAC, said: “Local authorities play a crucial role in supporting communities around Ireland, and their commitment is evident in this year’s report. We particularly welcome the reduction in the average housing vacancy rate from 2.81% to 2.75%. While the average re-letting time of 35 weeks remains too long, it is encouraging to see increased investment in housing maintenance and the determination of many local authorities to reduce vacancy rates further. Continued focus in this area will be essential to delivering the homes our communities need.”

 

€282,286,380.98 was spent on housing maintenance in 2024, with 26 local authorities increasing their expenditure in this area. The average cost per unit was €1,824.17 – ranging from the lowest spend in Carlow (€642.68) to the highest spend in Dublin City (€2,894). Cork County recorded the highest increase in maintenance costs, from €679.91 in 2023 to €1,422.55 in 2024 – a 109% increase, and Leitrim recorded the largest decrease of 15.9% from €1,678.73 in 2023 to €1,411.89 in 2024.

For the second year in a row, Dublin City retrofitted the highest number of homes, completing 408 units in 2024 (up from 259 in 2023). Donegal followed with 160 units (222 in 2023), while Louth completed 146 units (205 in 2023). Several local authorities, including Donegal, Cavan, and Galway, reported capacity to undertake additional work but were constrained by funding limitations as no further retrofits could proceed until resources were allocated through the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH) programme.

Another target where performance is falling short is the annual inspection of 25% of rental properties. Despite support from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH), many local authorities are not meeting this requirement. Six authorities achieved or exceeded the target: Meath (50.24%), Cork City (49.20%), Waterford City and County (48.32%), Offaly (31.66%), South Dublin (26.55%), and Fingal (25.73%). At the other end of the scale, four authorities recorded inspection rates of less than 10% and, as in 2023, continued to perform poorly – including Galway City (6.81%), Dublin City (7.58%), Wicklow (7.45%), and Carlow (8.70%).

Commercial rates reached 92%, their highest collection level yet. Housing loans collection rates were also their highest yet at 88%. In the case of rents and annuities, they remain steady at 88% a slight decrease from 91% in 2021.

In relation to the collection of rent and annuities, 17 local authorities reported an increase in collections in 2024 while four recorded no change and 10 experienced a decrease. The lowest collection levels were recorded in Limerick City and County (72%), Dublin City (73%), and Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown (75%). In contrast, the highest levels were achieved in Leitrim (99%), Cork County (98%), Westmeath (97%), and Laois (97 %).

The report from NOAC also highlights the emphasis on tourism in the Programme for Government 2025. While a tourism strategy (J4) is considered a key metric for all local authorities, five had no strategy in place in 2024 and one lacked a designated Tourism Officer.

 

The data gathered for the Local Authority Performance Indicator Report informs NOAC as to the performance of Local Government across the traditional core services which, coupled with validation and scrutiny meeting processes, facilitates an assessment and analysis of that performance. It highlights areas where performance has been enhanced, as well as areas in need of improvement.

Government and industry delegates from across Northwest Europe share expertise at NORDUK meeting

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Government officials and industry representatives from seven north west European countries – Ireland, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark, Netherlands and the United Kingdom – came together in Ireland on 18th September 2025 for the 2025 NORDUK meeting.

 

Delegates discussed  issues facing the Heavy-Duty Vehicle Sector, including driver shortages, decarbonisation and the regulation of the sector.

 

The annual meeting provides an important opportunity for government officials and industry to share experiences and develop collaborative solutions to challenges facing the sector.

 

On 19 September ATC (part of Arvato) hosted the visiting delegates at their headquarters in Dublin. The visit allowed delegates to hear about ATCs Green Logistics journey and gave delegates the chance to hear details of a real-world case study on the transition to zero emission HDVs.

 

In September 2024 ATC announced a landmark investment of €22.5 million over five years to support a ‘Driving Green Strategy’. Their ongoing transition of their fleet to battery electric power has been supported by the Zero Emission Heavy Duty Vehicle Purchase Grant scheme, funded by the Department of Transport.

 

Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Séan Canney, said: “The NORDUK meetings provide a space for countries to navigate the complex challenges and opportunities we are facing through open dialogue and sharing our experiences. I’m delighted that my Department hosted the meeting this year as a demonstration of the shared commitment we all hold to advancing sustainable, efficient, and safe transport systems across Europe and beyond.

 

“The visit to ATC by delegates was an opportunity to learn from industry about the challenges they face in transitioning to zero emission technology. This real-world experience is invaluable for policy makers as we work together to meet our climate goals.”

 

Rainer Hoerbst, Head of Green Logistics at ATC said: “At ATC we are delighted to be able showcase our Green Logistics journey to the NORDUK meeting delegates. Sharing our experiences from the first steps of emission reduction, trialling alternative fuels, investing in and subsequently successfully operating an expansive fleet of zero-tailpipe-emission trucks and vans. We are very proud of the progress which has been made towards accelerating and scaling electrical line-haul lanes across the continent through close collaboration with all relevant stakeholders. We look forward to exploring the next steps of this exciting journey!”

 

Nationwide search now underway to find the ‘An Post Bookshop of the Year 2025’

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An Post Irish Book Awards offers book lovers across Ireland the opportunity

to vote for their favourite local bookshop

 

The search is officially underway to find the ‘An Post Bookshop of the Year’ for 2025. The category is now back for the fifth year running in the An Post Irish Book Awards, the annual literary event that celebrates and promotes Irish writing to the widest range of readers possible.

 

The ‘An Post Bookshop of the Year’ category acknowledges the vital role played by independent bookshops and local branches of bookshop chains in helping their local communities to find and enjoy their titles of choice. Previous winners include:

 

  • Little Acorns Bookstore, Derry – 2024
  • Halfway Up the Stairs in Greystones – 2023
  • Bridge Street Books, Wicklow – 2022
  • Kennys Bookshop and Art Gallery, Galway – 2021

Bookshop customers can visit https://www.anpost.com/bookshopoftheyear to submit a nomination for their own personal favourite bookshop and outline the reason for their choice. Readers can also enter by scanning the QR code on posters within their preferred bookshop and following the instructions. Everyone who votes will be entered into a draw to win 1 of 3 €100 One4all vouchers.

 

Nominations for the ‘An Post Bookshop of the Year’ will close at midnight on Friday, 19th September. The 12 bookshops around Ireland who receive the most online votes will then be longlisted and invited by the judges to enter a written submission. Mystery shoppers will also visit the 12 shops as part of the judging process.

 

Following this, a shortlist of six shops will be finalised for the ‘An Post Bookshop of the Year’ which will be officially announced in October. The overall winner will be presented with their trophy at the An Post Irish Book Awards ceremony on Thursday, 27th November in the Convention Centre Dublin. The winner will receive a trophy along with a prize worth €15,000 from An Post Commerce.

 

Celebrating its 20th year, the An Post Irish Book Awards promote Irish writing to the widest range of readers possible. The initiative brings together a vast community passionate about books – readers, authors, booksellers, publishers and librarians – to recognise the very best of new and established Irish writing talent and 2025 will be no different.

 

Categories in the An Post Irish Book Awards include Novel of the Year, Children’s (Junior and Senior), Crime Fiction, Popular Fiction, Non-fiction, Sports, Short Story, Poetry, Teen and Young Adult and Irish Language. A television programme will be broadcast on RTÉ One television in December, culminating in one of the 2025 winning titles being announced as the ‘An Post Irish Book of the Year 2025’.

 

Larry Mac Hale, Chairperson of the An Post Irish Book Awards, says:

 

“Across Ireland, bookshops play a vital role in local communities, serving as cultural and social hubs for people of all ages. We created this category to honour the invaluable impact that bookshops and booksellers have on their local areas and the wider Irish book world. We are delighted to be celebrating the fifth anniversary of this award, which is an major milestone and a testament to the incredible bookshops across Ireland. We encourage everyone to show their support by voting for their favourite local bookshop in the An Post Bookshop of the Year award.”

 

Maria Dickenson, Chair of Bookselling Ireland, says:

 

“Bookshops across Ireland are central to community life – enriching our cultural and literary landscape. Day in and day out, booksellers spark a love of reading and give a platform to Irish authors and stories. The An Post Bookshop of the Year award is a wonderful way for readers to show their appreciation and celebrate the unique role their local bookshop plays in connecting people with books.”

Garrett Bridgeman, Managing Director of An Post Mails & Parcels said:  

“Booksellers are the heartbeat of Ireland’s literary landscape. The An Post Bookshop of the Year award recognises their dedication and the pivotal role they play in inspiring new generations of readers. Booksellers aren’t just adapting, they’re setting the pace. An Post is committed to helping booksellers continue growing their online business and Making Better Happen for their customers and communities every day.”

 

www.anpostirishbookawards.ie

Facebook: @AnPostIBAS

Instagram: @anpost_irishbookawards

Speed Fibre Group finalises acquisition of BT Communications Ireland Limited

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Speed Fibre Group, Ireland’s leading telecoms infrastructure provider and the parent company of Enet and Magnet+, today announced the completion of its acquisition of BT Communications Ireland Limited (BTCIL), a business unit of BT and a leading provider of wholesale and enterprise connectivity solutions in Ireland.

 

Integration of the two businesses begins today.

 

The acquisition includes BTCIL’s domestic network infrastructure, co-location facilities, wholesale and enterprise customer base, and the internal teams supporting them. These operations will now be integrated into Speed Fibre Group’s two brands: Enet, serving wholesale customers, and Magnet+, serving enterprise businesses.

 

By uniting two complementary businesses, Speed Fibre Group is creating one platform with greater scale, deeper reach, and enhanced capability delivering increased choice, better value, and more innovation to customers nationwide. This platform will support the data centre sector, next generation computing and AI requirements.

 

Following the transaction, Speed Fibre Group’s network now extends to nearly 10,000 km of fibre, connecting 94 towns and cities, and over 6,000 buildings including more than 2,500 in Dublin and key urban centres. This strengthened footprint positions Enet as Ireland’s second-largest wholesale telecoms operator, enabling faster service delivery and providing real competition in the marketplace.

 

The transaction also includes a long-term agreement for BT and Speed Fibre Group to source connectivity from each other, ensuring continuity of service for both organisations and their customers.

 

Peter McCarthy, CEO of Speed Fibre Group, said:

“We are delighted to announce that BT Communications Ireland Limited is now officially part of Speed Fibre Group, marking an exciting transformational milestone for our business. Uniting BTCIL and Speed Fibre Group combines market heritage, knowledge and scale, and also restores badly needed competition in the telecommunications space at a national level. By bringing together two leaders in the market, we will unlock greater scale, deeper building connectivity, and the ability to offer customers nationwide increased choice, better value, expanded reach and service excellence.

 

Importantly, this acquisition also aligns with our long-term plans to future proof Ireland’s telecommunications landscape and support Ireland’s growing digital economy. Our next-generation infrastructure is designed to support high volume and decentralised data flows essential for sectors like AI, pharma, and cloud services who require fast, reliable, and scalable connectivity.”

 

We will continue to focus on delivering robust and innovative connectivity solutions for businesses and communities across the country to meet Ireland’s growing digital demands.”

 

Speed Fibre Group is owned by Cordiant Digital Infrastructure Limited, a specialist global infrastructure investor with a focus on digital infrastructure.

 

Steven Marshall, Chairman of Cordiant Digital Infrastructure Limited, said: “This acquisition is a fantastic synergy between two of the top three market players in Ireland. It will make Speed Fibre Group more efficient, more competitive and in a better position to roll out even more innovative and better value solutions for customers.

 

With a proven management team in place, this is a transformational transaction for the Irish telecoms market. We’re very much looking forward to working with Speed Fibre Group to continue this investment trajectory so we can support customers, grow the digital industries in Ireland, and, by extension, support GDP and economic growth in Ireland.”

 

www.speedfibregroup.ie

LinkedIn: @SpeedFibreGroup

Ashview Consultants signs exclusive Irish market agreement with global company Safe365, a digital health and safety tool that helps businesses track, measure and improve their safety performance and compliance in real time

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  • Intelligent software platform Safe365 already being used by thousands of organisations globally including Amazon, Heathrow Airport and the City of London

Ashview Consultants, one of Ireland’s leading business risk management consultancies, has signed an exclusive partnership agreement with Safe365 – a data driven digital health and safety platform that helps businesses track, measure and improve their safety culture in real time.

New Zealand based Safe365 already works with thousands of organisations globally including clients such as Heathrow Airport, Amazon, the City of London, Birmingham Airport, Equestrian New South Wales and Tāmaki Health.

By combining Ashview Consultants’ decades of business risk management expertise with Safe365’s intelligent safety software, business leaders can now access a clear, data-driven picture of their current safety and risk performance, along with actionable insights to create a tailored improvement plan – all contributing to a safer, more efficient workplace.

Established 20 years ago, Ashview Consultants has offices in Dublin, Newry and London and works with clients across the world to optimise their performance by identifying, assessing and mitigating risks that could impact their business operations or their workplace health and safety standards. The team of 30 professionals combine deep sectoral knowledge with innovative technology to provide practical and proactive solutions to clients that enhance operational, financial, business, compliance and health and safety systems or address industry-specific challenges.

 

Client sectors include construction, aviation, transport, commercial, pharmaceutical, hospitality, retail, residential, logistics, renewable energy, data centres and student accommodation.

 

Safe365 is backed by years of research and development, incorporating ISO standards, global best practices, and industry legislation. The platform measures 82 elements across 10 modules, covering everything from director knowledge to worker engagement, offering a clear, real-time picture of safety maturity. Organisations using the platform can track emerging risks, monitor behavioural trends, and identify areas for improvement without waiting for the next quarterly report or annual review. Safe365 also offers benchmarking against industry standards, so businesses can see how they compare to other industry leaders.

 

Commenting on the partnership, Paul O’Shea, CEO of Ashview Consultants, said: “Irish organisations operating in complex high-risk environments who want to move their business from reactive to proactive risk management now have the opportunity to do so through this partnership between Ashview Consultants and Safe365.

 

Risk preparedness starts with great leadership, shared accountability, and a culture of consistency. The Safe365 platform gives businesses a comprehensive view of their strengths, weaknesses and opportunities for improvement, allowing businesses to understand where they stand and where they need to improve. These real-time insights and data will help Irish businesses drive meaningful behavioural change, fostering collaboration across all levels of an organisation.

Safe365 delivers clear, easy-to-understand data that provides actionable insights every day, not just a once-a-year checklist snapshot. This ongoing process ensures that improvements to the business aren’t just made once – they’re sustained and refined.”

Nathan Hight, Co-Founder of Safe365, added: “We are delighted to partner with Ashview Consultants because we share a real purpose to provide an innovative, world-class digital tool that supports businesses in improving their work health, safety, and wellbeing leadership, culture, and performance.

Business leaders in Ireland now have access to the right data at the right time, enabling smarter decisions, reduced risk, and ultimately a safer, higher-performing workplace. Most importantly, however, it also ensures that safety becomes a core part of their culture and values.”

 

Ashview Consultants is a 100% Irish owned and fully independent company which is third party accredited by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM) and The Association for Project Safety (APS). ISO accreditations include:

 

  • ISO 9001 – Quality Management System
  • ISO 14001 – Environmental Management System
  • ISO 45001 – Occupational Health & Safety Management System

 

Ashview Consultants – setting new standards in the global business risk management industry

 

For more information about Ashview Consultants, please visit:

www.ashviewconsultants.com

LinkedIn               @Ashview Consultants

Instagram             @ashviewconsultants