WIND TURBINES, VIRTUAL reality headsets, drones and hoverboards are among some of the images showcasing innovation in a new report on Irish society.
The Future Ireland report takes a look at Irish society through the lens of different subjects each year. Its aim is to focus on Irish people’s concerns and thoughts on the future of the country.
Innovation is the theme of this year’s report. Last year, it focused on the themes of belonging and community, while the first report in 2015 looked at Irish society’s values and priorities.
The report is published by international media agency OMD’s Irish wing, with the support of Ulster Bank.
Alongside the report, photographs shot by self-taught photographer David Gerulis help to highlight the subject of innovation in Ireland today.
A total of 1,000 Irish adults were surveyed for the report, with the research carried out by Amárach Research. Six focus groups were also conducted earlier this year.
The research found that over two-thirds of people should “embrace change, rather than delay it”; while 60% accepted that they needed to take risks to get ahead in life.
The majority of people said they were happier to live in the Ireland of today, rather than the Ireland of 20 years ago, or in 20 years’ time.
With the focus of the report on innovation, seven out of 10 people surveyed said they would welcome any or most change that will improve their lives.
In terms what type of innovation they would like to see more of in the future, over 70% put healthcare and medical technologies at the top of the list.
Sustainable energy was second the list of priorities (63%), while half of people said they wanted to see public transport services and vehicles continue to innovate into the future.
The report also divided participants into four distinct personality types based off the answers they gave.
The most common type was the ‘realist’ (31%) – people who welcome some change but are more sceptical about technology. They support the efforts of entrepreneurs and businesses to innovate.
‘Doubters’ made up one fifth of the population – these are people who are risk averse and don’t believe Ireland should embrace change.
‘Creatives’ (22%) and ‘advocates’ (25%) made up the rest of the population. These groups are primarily made up of young people and are the ones driving change in Irish society.
You can view the full report here
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