Michael Fitzpatrick

Japanese companies are adopting artificial intelligence much more slowly and cautiously than firms in the United States and United Kingdom. OECD data says only 8.4% of Japanese workers use AI as part of their jobs, reflecting corporate risk aversion, consensus-driven decision-making, concern about errors and reputational damage, low digital literacy, outdated IT systems and pressure to preserve employment. AI is mainly used for low-risk tasks such as drafting, summarizing and information gathering, while healthcare and core business operations lag further behind. The Japanese government is promoting investment through a new AI law, but experts argue that weak digital skills and resistance to disruptive reform may prevent the productivity gains needed to address labor shortages and Japan’s low G7 productivity ranking.

A Syrian family in Holywood, County Down, left their home after it was attacked in what police are treating as a racially motivated hate crime. Torki Alomare said two of his children were injured, while his parents’ nearby home was also damaged and cash was stolen. Police are investigating and seeking witnesses or video footage. Local politicians and an African and Caribbean community organization condemned the attacks and called for stronger leadership against racism.

A Syrian family in Holywood, County Down, left their home after a racially motivated attack in which stones were thrown at windows, two children were injured, paint was thrown at the family’s other property, a vehicle was damaged and cash was stolen. Torki Alomare said the incident had devastated his family and prevented him from working. Police are investigating and appealing for witnesses or video footage. Political representatives and a community support organization condemned the attacks, criticized racist social media commentary and called for stronger leadership against racism.

Belfast City Hall hosted a commemoration marking the 110th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme, featuring a two‑minute silence and wreath‑laying attended by local leaders and UK and Irish government representatives. Parallel ceremonies in northern France at the Ulster Memorial Tower and Guillemont honoured soldiers from the 36th Ulster and 16th Irish divisions, with Princess Anne participating. Speakers highlighted the emotional significance of the anniversary and the shared losses across the island of Ireland during World War I.