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SIRO’s Full Fibre Network Now Live In Every County In Ireland

SIRO, Ireland’s leading fibre broadband network operator, has today (Tuesday, 26 November) announced that its high-speed fibre broadband service is now live in Leitrim’s county town, Carrick-on-Shannon. This expansion means SIRO now operates in every county across Ireland, marking an important milestone in its nationwide rollout of 100% fibre broadband. SIRO was founded in 2015, as a joint venture between ESB and Vodafone, to roll out a full fibre network across Ireland. Since then, SIRO has rolled out its network to over 620,000 premises in Ireland and to a total of 142 cities and towns to date, with its build ongoing. [caption id="attachment_9761" align="aligncenter" width="837"] Pictured at the announcement are SIRO Chief Executive Officer John Keaney; Vodafone Ireland CEO Amanda Nelson (RIGHT) and ESB Deputy Chief Executive Marguerite Sayers (LEFT).[/caption] The significant expansion of SIRO’s network now means it has grown to become the second largest full fibre broadband network in the Irish market. SIRO currently offers speeds of up to 2 Gigabits for residential customers and up to 10 Gigabits for enterprise, but its network has the capacity to scale to 25 Gigabits when required. SIRO’s network going live in Carrick on Shannon also means that SIRO now has a live network in every county in Ireland (Republic). The addition of Carrick-on-Shannon to SIRO’s network forms part of its €1 billion investment in a future-proofed broadband infrastructure. While the company has reached over 620,00 premises to date, the company is on track to meet its commitment of over 700,000 premises by 2026. Commenting on the milestone, SIRO Chief Executive Officer John Keaney said:
“The milestone of reaching every county in Ireland matters hugely to SIRO, and to our parent companies ESB and Vodafone. It’s a measure of our longer-term ambition and continued growth. SIRO is a company driven by the objective of creating choice and real competition in the broadband market. We are already doing so in the 142 towns and cities in which we operate and remain focused on continuing to do so as our network expands further across Ireland. “Bringing full fibre broadband to Carrick-on-Shannon marks a major milestone for SIRO as our network’s footprint now extends to every county in Ireland. Carrick on Shannon joining the wider SIRO network across the Northwest region puts the town on a par with its neighbours in Sligo, Cavan, Donegal, Longford and Roscommon, ensuring that it has world-class connectivity and remains a great place to live and work.”
Vodafone Ireland CEO, Amanda Nelson noted:
“We are delighted to mark this milestone today in Carrick-on-Shannon and that with SIRO, our joint venture with ESB,  we now deliver high speed gigabit broadband to every county in Ireland. Since launching in 2015 we have been delivering connectivity to people, businesses, and communities right across Ireland, while also offering greater competition within the market. “We are proud to be providing high-speed connectivity to homes and businesses and empowering local businesses, entrepreneurs, and remote workers in the community with the tools they need to thrive in a digital world.”
Commenting, ESB Deputy Chief Executive Marguerite Sayers, said:
“With recent expansion of the network to Carrick-On-Shannon, I warmly welcome the milestone of SIRO’s availability in every county of Ireland. It marks a significant collective achievement for ESB, our partners in Vodafone and of course the hard-working SIRO team. In less than ten years, the Joint Venture has brought access to ultra-fast fibre broadband connectivity to 620,000 families and small businesses across regional Ireland and is entirely in keeping with ESB’s commitment to the communities we serve.”
Justin Fannon, Director of Services (Acting) Economic Development, Planning and Infrastructural Services, Leitrim County Council Justin Fannon, noted:
“I am delighted to see this announcement today by SIRO that 800 premises in Carrick on Shannon can now connect to Fibre Broadband with a further 800 to follow in the coming months. The local authority welcomes the SIRO installation and the economic benefits it has the potential to bring to the area by strengthening connectivity and providing confidence to businesses to expand their use of digital technologies.”
Carrick on Shannon residents can check if SIRO is available at their premises by searching their Eircode here. [lookup_modal type="eircode" button-text="Search Your Eircode" position="mid" title="Input your Eircode to check whether SIRO is available at your location"]
In honour of World Mental Health Day, it’s important to remember that mental health support can take many forms. With many resources available online, help is now more readily available. Whether it’s connecting with a therapist, joining a virtual support group, or using meditation apps to manage stress, a variety of digital tools exist to help people maintain and improve their mental well-being. This is a snapshot of some Irish online resources worth looking at.

Teletherapy Services

Teletherapy has become a vital tool in mental health care, providing convenient access to professional support from the comfort of home. Many Irish services offer teletherapy, allowing individuals to connect with licensed therapists through secure video calls. - MyMind offers affordable online counselling services in Ireland, with qualified professionals available in multiple languages. This service is designed for accessibility, making it easier for people to seek help without long wait times. - Turn2Me is a free online counselling service offering support for mental health, including one-on-one therapy, group sessions, and mental health workshops.

Meditation and Mindfulness Apps

Practicing mindfulness and meditation can greatly improve mental well-being, helping to manage stress, improve sleep, and promote a sense of calm. Some of the most popular meditation apps available in Ireland include: - Headspace: This well-known meditation app offers a wide variety of guided meditations, mindfulness exercises, and sleep aids. - Calm: Another popular meditation app, Calm offers meditation guides, breathing exercises, and relaxing music to help reduce anxiety and improve mental clarity.

Mental Health Podcasts

Podcasts are a growing source of mental health education and support. Listening to expert advice or hearing from people with lived experiences can provide valuable insights into managing mental health challenges. Some top mental health podcasts available in Ireland include: Where Is My Mind?: Hosted by Niall Breslin (Bressie), this Irish podcast focuses on mental health, mindfulness, and navigating modern life. It offers interviews with mental health professionals and insights into personal growth. Let’s Talk About Mental Health podcast: Hosted by Jeremy Godwin, this podcast simplifies mental health topics with practical, research-based tips for improving well-being. It offers actionable advice that listeners can immediately apply to their lives.

Online Support Groups

Sometimes, knowing you are not alone can make all the difference. Online support groups provide a safe space to share experiences, seek advice, and find community. In Ireland, some mental health support groups include: - Aware Online Support Groups: Aware offers virtual support groups for individuals affected by depression, bipolar disorder, and related mental health issues. These weekly groups are free and provide a space to connect with others facing similar challenges. - Jigsaw Live Chat: Jigsaw offers a free, confidential online chat service for young people aged 12-25. It’s a great resource for those seeking immediate support or advice in managing their mental health. -Growth Mental Health Support Groups:  Whether diagnosed with a mental health challenge or struggling to cope with life’s difficulties, Growth Mental Health Support Groups offer a confidential, supportive environment to connect with others. These groups are free, open to everyone, and foster a sense of community among individuals with shared experiences. With so many online resources available in Ireland, finding support for your mental well-being is easier than ever. Whether you prefer teletherapy, mindfulness practices, or connecting with others through support groups, there are numerous ways to access help digitally. Find further resources at the HSE Mental Health Services If you or someone you know are experiencing mental health issues, please contact: www.samaritans.org or 116 123.
The Gigabit Infrastructure Act (GIA) began as an EU-wide effort to reduce the cost of deploying Very High Capacity Networks (VHCNs), such as Fibre-To-The-Home (FTTH). It replaced the Broadband Cost Reduction Directive (BCRD) of 2014 and was formalised as Regulation (EU) 2024/1309, entering into force on May 11, 2024. The GIA sets out measures to streamline infrastructure sharing, coordinate civil works, and digitalise permitting processes to accelerate broadband rollouts across the EU. Member states, including Ireland, must ensure compliance with its provisions within 18 to 24 months, with the key deadline for full implementation by May 2026. The GIA directly applies across the EU, but national legislation is required to address specific elements, such as access rights and exemptions. The GIA Steering Group (GIASG) in Ireland, was established to coordinate and oversee the implementation of the Gigabit Infrastructure Act (GIA). Its primary role is to engage key stakeholders—including telecom operators, public sector bodies, local authorities, and regulators like ComReg—to ensure compliance with the GIA by its key deadlines in 2025 and 2026. The Gigabit Infrastructure Act (GIA) presents both significant opportunities and challenges for Ireland's telecommunications landscape, as it aims to reduce the costs and improve the efficiency of deploying Very High Capacity Networks (VHCNs), including full-fibre networks. Some of the key challenges facing the work of the GIASG over the next few months include:

1. Legislative and Regulatory Adaptation:

Implementing the GIA requires significant adaptation of Ireland's legislative and regulatory frameworks to align with the Act's requirements. The need for new national legislation to integrate the GIA’s provisions poses challenges, as it requires inter-agency coordination and the alignment of multiple sectors (telecoms, housing, public works).

2. Ensuring Stakeholder Compliance:

With various stakeholders involved, such as telecoms operators, local authorities, and infrastructure owners, there is a need for clear coordination and compliance. The GIA necessitates the creation of the GIASG to monitor progress and resolve issues, which can be complex due to the diversity of interests.

3. Physical Infrastructure Gaps:

One of the challenges is identifying and addressing gaps in the availability and quality of physical infrastructure, especially in urban and less-developed areas. While the GIA promotes the use of existing infrastructure, some areas may lack the necessary assets or face having to make available unremediated damaged or decaying assets, requiring consideration of new investments and coordination.

4. Harmonisation of Permit and Rights of Way Procedures:

Discrepancies between local authorities regarding rules, including on reinstatement obligations can create obstacles especially in the last few metres into the home. Harmonising these processes across the country, as required by the GIA, will require significant administrative changes, coordination, and potential legislative updates.

5. Capacity and Resource Constraints:

The implementation of the GIA will place additional resource demands on public bodies and operators, particularly in terms of managing and updating Single Information Points (SIPs). This could strain the capacity of local authorities and regulatory bodies like ComReg although the work and preparation of the GIASG is likely to mitigate this.

6. Stakeholder Buy-in and Coordination:

Ensuring that all stakeholders, including access seekers (operators) and access providers (infrastructure owners), are fully engaged in the process is crucial but can be challenging. Coordination on civil works and infrastructure sharing often involves navigating conflicting interests, the approach to which needs careful consideration and chaperoning along the journey.

Conclusion

The GIA represents a transformative opportunity for Ireland to expand its digital infrastructure, especially for the deployment of fibre networks, and to meet its national digital connectivity goals. However, it also brings complex challenges related to regulatory adaptation, stakeholder coordination, and ensuring compliance across multiple sectors. Success will depend on efficient management of these factors and the capacity to address legislative, technical, and administrative bottlenecks. The Department of Communications has experience in managing large scale communications projects such as MANs and NBI. Those projects set expectations high for the success of this project too.
Broadband operator, SIRO, and Athlone Chamber of Commerce met this week to discuss critical issues and opportunities related to the rollout of high-speed fibre broadband in Athlone and the wider county. At the meeting, SIRO, which has grown to Ireland’s second largest full fibre broadband network, outlined to Athlone Chamber of Commerce representatives, SIRO’s rollout in Athlone, Westmeath and across the wider Midlands; take-up rates of fibre broadband by Westmeath businesses; and what copper switch off will mean for local businesses. To date, SIRO has invested €50 million in the Midlands, enabling 41,000 premises to access its high-speed network. This investment ensures that 113,000 people across the Midlands can benefit from SIRO’s advanced broadband services. In Westmeath alone, SIRO has passed 17,460 premises, including 7,340 in Athlone and 10,120 in Mullingar. A key topic discussed was the importance of increasing awareness of the availability of fibre-to-the-premise broadband (full fibre) amongst Westmeath businesses. In Westmeath, as is also the case nationally, there remains a low awareness of amongst businesses of fibre access in their area. Equally, greater information on what are the benefits fibre broadband can deliver for businesses relative to older forms of broadband is also required. Low adoption rates by businesses means that businesses risk missing the opportunity to enhance their operations through a faster and more reliable connection, according to SIRO. The issue of copper switch off was also considered at the meeting. In December 2023, Ireland’s telecoms regulator, Comreg, approved the conditions for how the process of switching off the outdated copper broadband network can proceed. The need for Westmeath businesses to avoid a cliff edge scenario by switching to faster, more reliable fibre broadband was emphasised. This includes upgrading business devices currently dependant on copper broadband such as security alarms, CCTV, lifts, payment terminals and landlines, amongst others. SIRO’s Director of Corporate Affairs Amanda Glancy, commented:
“Athlone’s Chamber of Commerce has its finger on the pulse of what matters to businesses in Athlone and across Westmeath. The opportunity to discuss with the Chamber the connectivity opportunities and challenges faced by local businesses is very welcome. “Fibre broadband network rollouts have accelerated rapidly across the region, making it critical that businesses seize the opportunity to leverage the better connectivity they provide. “Full fibre broadband allows businesses – big and small – to tap into technologies that can help them develop and grow. With fibre broadband now powering everything from AI applications, security and CCTV systems, payment systems to video calling and Cloud computing, it can really support business productivity and profitability. “With copper switch off now moving closer it is also a good time for businesses to consider their connectivity needs now and into the future,” added Ms. Glancy.
Athlone Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Officer Tommy Hogan, stated:
“Ensuring that businesses in Athlone and Westmeath stay competitive in a digital-first world is a top priority for Athlone Chamber of Commerce. We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with SIRO to highlight the importance of high-speed, reliable fibre broadband. As the copper switch off approaches, it’s essential for our members to be informed and prepared for this transition. Faster connectivity will open up new avenues for growth, innovation and operational efficiency across the town and region.”
As part of SIRO’s broader information campaign in Westmeath, it will hold an information event in The Harbour Place Shopping Centre in Mullingar on Saturday, 21 September. Consumers and business owners are encouraged to pop along if they have any questions on SIRO’s full fibre broadband for their home or business. To check if your home is on the SIRO network, search your Eircode today. [lookup_modal type="eircode" button-text="Search Your Eircode" position="mid" title="Input your Eircode to check whether SIRO is available at your location"]
Killarney Innovation Centre has become the latest member of the SIRO-Vodafone Gigabit Hub initiative. The initiative, a collaboration between SIRO and Vodafone, delivers world-class connectivity to digital hubs nationwide. The Centre officially joined the Gigabit Hub Initiative at a formal launch event undertaken by Minister for Education and Kerry TD Norma Foley, along with representatives from SIRO, Vodafone and the Killarney Innovation Centre. This connectivity partnership is set to accelerate innovation and business growth in the Kerry region by providing the Centre’s dynamic community of more than 20 companies with access to cutting-edge Gigabit full fibre broadband. [caption id="attachment_9618" align="aligncenter" width="906"] Pictured at Killarney Innovation Centre from left: Sean Counihan, Chair of Killarney Innovation Centre, Ronan Whelan, Chief Commercial Officer, SIRO, Minister for Education Norma Foley TD and Chris Stagg, Consumer Director, Vodafone Ireland. Photo: Pauline Dennigan[/caption] Since its establishment in the late 1990s, the Killarney Innovation Centre has been a cornerstone of Munster’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Housing a diverse array of companies—ranging from financial treasury solutions and software development to sports statistical analysis and health & safety consultancy—the Centre has become a pivotal hub for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and innovation in the area. Over the past two decades, more than 120 businesses have found a home within its walls, collectively creating thousands of jobs, stimulating local supply chains, and significantly contributing to the local economy. The Killarney Innovation Centre joins over 20 leading digital hubs across Ireland, including Galway’s PorterShed, Skibbereen’s Ludgate Hub, and Dundalk’s Creative Spark, in benefiting from Vodafone-SIRO’s Gigabit Hub initiative. By joining the Gigabit Hub initiative, the Centre will now provide its residents with access to Gigabit full fibre broadband, ensuring they have the state-of-the-art connectivity needed to excel in today’s digital economy. As a not-for-profit organisation, the Killarney Innovation Centre has consistently offered a nurturing environment for start-ups, SMEs, and established businesses. With high-quality facilities, including flexible office spaces, co-working areas, and modern meeting rooms, the Centre has played a crucial role in driving economic development and job creation in the region. Integrating SIRO’s Gigabit broadband will greatly enhance the Centre’s capabilities, offering unparalleled internet speeds that support advanced technological applications such as AI, Big Data, or Cloud computing, and seamless global communication. This upgrade will attract more start-ups and established businesses to Killarney, further stimulating economic growth and innovation. As the business landscape evolves, the Killarney Innovation Centre remains dedicated to expanding and adapting its services. Future plans include a significant expansion of the hub’s size, advanced co-working spaces, and additional meeting and conference rooms equipped with the latest audiovisual technology. Minister for Education Norma Foley TD speaking at the launch event noted:
"I want to pay tribute to the Killarney Innovation Centre which has been a dynamic centre since it was established in 2000. It is now hosting 27 companies. I want to congratulate the board and I wish SIRO and Vodafone well. The SIRO-Vodafone Gigabit Hub Initiative is a great addition to the centre. It is providing high speed connectivity to remote workers and businesses in Kerry."
SIRO Chief Commercial Officer Ronan Whelan, said:
“SIRO extends a warm welcome to the Killarney Innovation Centre as it joins the Gigabit Hub initiative. At SIRO, we believe that access to fibre connectivity is a crucial driver of innovation and economic growth. It’s essential for all businesses that want to adopt digital technologies to grow their business. By providing the Killarney Innovation Centre with Gigabit full fibre broadband, they will enjoy enhanced technological capabilities, empowering them to support local businesses and jobs.”
Consumer Director Vodafone Ireland, Chris Stagg, concluded:
“Vodafone is proud to support the Killarney Innovation Centre as it joins the SIRO-Vodafone Gigabit Hub initiative. This partnership underscores our commitment to empowering local communities through cutting-edge connectivity and with our gigabit fibre broadband we are helping to ensure that the Centre continues to be a vital hub for innovation and economic growth whilst supporting jobs within the business sector here in Kerry”.
Manager of Killarney Innovation Centre, Conor O'Leary, expressed:
“We are thrilled to announce that the Killarney Innovation Centre has joined the Gigabit Hub Initiative, made possible through our partnership with SIRO and Vodafone. With 1Gbps speeds now available, our clients can benefit from top-tier connectivity essential for driving innovation and growth. This advancement represents a major step forward in our mission to nurture creativity and support the next generation of entrepreneurs and businesses in Killarney and the greater Kerry region. It underscores our ongoing commitment to providing our clients with the best possible supports and services.”
Killarney Innovation Centre Chair of the board, Mr Sean Counihan, said:
"We're delighted that the Killarney Innovation Centre is now a part of the Gigabit Hubs Initiative, offering our clients access to 1Gb speeds thanks to our partnership with SIRO and Vodafone. This significant upgrade empowers our businesses with world-class connectivity, driving innovation and growth in the heart of Killarney and the Kerry region."
We are now accepting applications for GigaBitHub Initiative within our network footprint. For more information, please visit https://siro.ie/about-us/gigabit-hubs/
SIRO and Vodafone have today announced that MERITs, Kildare’s Naas based innovation tech hub, is joining the Gigabit Hub Initiative. The Initiative is a partnership between SIRO and Vodafone, which provides world class connectivity solutions to digital hubs across Ireland, including Gigabit full fibre broadband. Currently, over 20 of Ireland’s leading hubs have participated in the Initiative including Galway’s PorterShed, Skibbereen’s Ludgate Hub or Dundalk’s Creative Spark. MERITs (The Mid-East Region’s Innovation ThinkSpace) located in Naas’s Devoy Quarter on John Devoy Road, funded by Kildare County Council and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment through Enterprise Ireland, serves as a dynamic incubation hub for startup and scaling technology and innovation focused businesses. Renowned for fostering innovation and supporting technology entrepreneurs, MERITS is the heart of the Mid-East Tech Cluster and a critical player in the tech startup ecosystem across Kildare, Wicklow and Meath. MERITS, offers an array of services such as hot desks, private offices, meeting rooms, collaboration and innovation spaces, a mixed reality lab, a podcast studio, and an editing suite. The facility currently operates 16 hot desks, 12 private offices containing 48 desks, and hosts the Local Enterprise Office with an additional 22 desks, supporting 42 businesses. MERITS is home to some of Ireland's most future-focused and innovative businesses, including Stryve, DreamDev, and Nua Bioenergy. These companies are pioneering advancements across various technologies, from bioenergy and artificial intelligence to cybersecurity, CREAtech, deep-tech, and med-tech. MERITS also extends its impact to the broader community through initiatives like the Coder Dojo program and the CREAtech School project. The weekly Coder Dojo club engages children aged 7-17 in learning to code, build websites, and create games or apps in a safe, creative, and social environment. The CREAtech School pilot project, conducted in collaboration with the Kildare County Council Arts Department, introduces 6th class students to the latest creative technologies, including podcast recording, virtual reality, and augmented reality. MERITS also partners with the Local Enterprise Office to offer a wide range of support services to founders and entrepreneurs. These include accelerator and development programs, mentor services, funding opportunities, and numerous networking events. Joining the Gigabit Hub Initiative will enhance MERITS' capabilities, providing ultrafast broadband and cutting-edge digital infrastructure to its community of innovators. This integration will facilitate seamless collaboration, rapid prototyping, and the efficient scaling of digital solutions, propelling the Midlands-East’s digital economy forward. Welcoming the partnership, Sonya Kavanagh, Chief Executive, Kildare County Council said;
“County Kildare is one of the fastest growing counties in the country and is home to a growing number of indigenous SMEs and a significant number of remote workers. Kildare County Council's Local Enterprise Office and Economic Development Team provide a range of supports for SMEs and this range of supports is being actively expanded. As economic development and job creation are two of our key priorities, we believe that this partnership between SIRO and MERITS will positively contribute to achieving these priorities.”
Mark Denley, Vodafone Ireland Finance Director said:
"We are delighted to welcome MERITS to the Gigabit Hub initiative which since launch has continued to grow and demonstrated the value and demand for smart working hubs throughout the country. MERITS and the community of customers it serves including a host of dynamic and hugely innovative Irish businesses in addition to youth educational groups who will massively benefit from high-speed connectivity. This initiative is a commitment and investment in our economy, our business community and most importantly to future generations of entrepreneurs and local businesses who will continue to successfully innovate on a global level, right here in Naas.”
SIRO Chief Executive Officer, John Keaney, said:
"Full fibre broadband is an essential tool for Irish businesses, whether small or large. Reliable fibre connectivity now underpins technologies, such as AI, cybersecurity, payment services, customer relationship management or Cloud computing, which are essential to business's growth and development. “We are pleased to partner with MERITS to provide this strategic Hub with world class connectivity. MERITS is already making a significant impact in driving a start-up culture and enterprise growth in the region, which will simulate job creation and economic development across the wider region in the years ahead".
Chris Fogarty, Hub Manager, MERITS concluded:
“MERITS helps to cement Kildare as the most innovative regional centre for technology startups in which to base themselves. Working in close collaboration with our colleagues in the Local Enterprise and Economic Development team of Kildare County Council, we ensure that our founders and entrepreneurs benefit from connecting with the supportive & experienced enterprise community across the county. We are delighted to now add cutting-edge digital connectivity to the range of supports we provide, as a result of our partnership with SIRO. It will augment the support services that Kildare-based businesses can access through the Local Enterprise Office and our colleagues in Kildare Chamber, Maynooth University, Enterprise Ireland & IDA.”
Alan Dunney, Director of Service, Planning, Enterprise, Economic Development & Emergency Services, Kildare County Council said;
“County Kildare’s entrepreneurs and founders continue to perform exceedingly well from an economic output and job creation perspective. As a county that claims home to many commuters, we are also keenly aware of the needs of remote workers. MERITS, an incubation hub for tech startup businesses and remote workers, delivers another piece of crucial infrastructure for the entrepreneurs whom we support daily as part of the Enterprise & Economic Development team of Kildare County Council. This partnership between MERITS and SIRO will deliver reliable and robust fibre connectivity to our entrepreneurs, founders and wider community and will greatly support our work into the future.”
To apply for the GigaBitHub Initiative, take a look at the application form here.
SIRO, Ireland's leading wholesale fibre broadband operator is excited to announce that its 100% fibre broadband network has gone live for homes and businesses in Monaghan and Carrickmacross. As of June, 1,500, premises in Monahan town and 1,800 in Carrickmacross have access to SIRO’s future-proof fibre broadband.  Working is ongoing to complete a further 1,000 premises in Monaghan town. These premises will be available for order by end August. Once completed this will bringing the total number of passed homes and businesses across both towns to almost 4,300.  SIRO’s investment across both towns represents a €6 million investment overall in the delivery of fast, reliable and futureproofed broadband.   The areas in Monaghan town covered by SIRO’S rollout include (but are not limited to): Telaydan Heights, Mill Brook, Beechgrove Lawns, Tully Estate, Manor Wood and Manor Crest, Glen Road, Clones Road, Belgium Park, Railway View, Riverside, Coolshannagh Road, New Terrace, Stanley Terrace, and Coolshannagh View.  Areas in Carrickmacross under the SIRO network include (but are not limited to):  Cloghvally Lower, Cloghvally Upper, Derryolam, Drummond Etra, Kilmactrasna, Lisanisk, Lurgans, Magheross, Mullanarry, Nafarty  SIRO is on track to reach over 700,000 premises in towns and cities across Ireland by 2026. Currently, more than 585,000 premises in 135 towns across the country have access to the SIRO network. Overall, SIRO is investing over €1 billion to deliver high-speed, future-proofed broadband throughout Ireland.  Commenting on SIRO’s network rollout in Monaghan, SIRO Chief Executive Officer John Keaney said: 
"We are pleased to extend our fibre broadband network in Monaghan town and Carrickmacross, providing more homes and businesses with access to the fastest and most reliable internet service available. 
[lookup_modal type="eircode" button-text="Search Your Eircode" position="mid" title="Input your Eircode to check whether SIRO is available at your location"]
We're happy to announce that we are expanding our full fibre broadband network to Lucan. Work on expanding our network in the Lucan area has already commenced with the first Lucan customers able to connect from September.  The rollout in the town will provide access to full fibre broadband to a total 1,600 premises – homes and businesses in the area. The areas benefiting from this rollout within Lucan include Laraghcon, Rokeby Park, Lucan Main Street, Sarsfield Park, Lucan Heights, and Ardeevin Estate, amongst others.   This latest expansion enhances SIRO's significant presence in the wider west Dublin area. With an established footprint in nearby locations such as Tallaght, Rathcoole, and Saggart, SIRO is adding 1,600 extra premises in Lucan. Overall, more than 100,000 premises in Dublin can now access SIRO’s network, including nearly 11,000 businesses and homes in the South Dublin County Council area.  The deployment of a full fibre broadband network in Lucan is part of SIRO’s ongoing strategy to expand its network right across Ireland.   We are on track to reach 700,000 premises in towns and cities across Ireland by 2026. Currently, more than 590,000 premises in 135 towns across the country have access to the SIRO network. Overall, SIRO is investing over €1 billion to deliver high-speed, future-proofed broadband throughout Ireland.  Commenting on SIRO’s network rollout in Lucan, SIRO Chief Executive Officer John Keaney said:
“We are pleased to announce the expansion of our full fibre broadband network to Lucan.   This area is an expanding and thriving community but access to essential infrastructure and services is critical to its long-term growth and success overall.   “SIRO’s full fibre rollout will provide high-speed, high-quality reliable broadband to individuals, families and businesses. Access to a fast, resilient and trusted broadband service allows all communities to live more sustainably, such as through working from home; running their businesses more productively; or, accessing services such as education or healthcare online. At its core SIRO’s fibre network unlocks multiple opportunities for end users, allowing them to deploy it in ways that best meet their needs and lifestyles,” added Mr. Keaney.  
Find out more about SIRO or register your interest for SIRO’s fibre broadband at https://siro.ie/register-your-interest/  
A survey undertaken by ‘Biodiversity in Schools’, Ireland's biodiversity youth training organisation, has found that nature tables, once a key part of every Irish child’s education on our native flora and fauna, are increasingly not a feature of Irish classrooms. The research found that almost  half (46%) of teachers surveyed stated that nature tables are no longer present in their classroom. The findings were issued to mark the launch of the Pollinator Project by Biodiversity in Schools, a social enterprise focused on increasing awareness of the importance of Ireland’s biodiversity, and SIRO, the wholesale broadband operator. The initiative was formally launched by Minister for Biodiversity Pippa Hackett T.D. in Dublin’s Saint Stephen’s Green Park. The Pollinator Project aims to raise awareness amongst school children of the important role of pollinators such as bees, butterflies, moths and hoverflies in the pollination of flowers and supporting food systems. Free nature kits and workshops are provided by Biodiversity in Schools to give teachers and students resources to increase their knowledge of pollinators and how to support them. Survey results:
  • The research project with 100 teachers found that 46% do not have a nature table in their classroom.
  • Of those that do not have a nature table, the dominant reason cited was a lack of space in their classroom to accommodate one.
  • When teachers were asked if they themselves had a nature table as a child, an overwhelming majority of 90% acknowledged that it had been part of their own educational experience.
  • When asked how children can improve their knowledge of nature there were a variety of responses including bringing nature back as a dedicated subject on the curriculum; creating more opportunities for kids to experience nature first hand in a school setting or access to more resources and external experts in the classroom.
Commenting on the Initiative, Minister for Biodiversity Pippa Hackett noted:
“Healthy ecosystems are vital to our future, so it’s critical to do everything we can to ensure children have an understanding and an appreciation of the importance of nature. Aside from its educational benefits, I have no doubt from my own memories as a child and from my experience as a parent that this project on pollinators will bring huge enjoyment to so many children and teachers around the country. I hope everyone involved enjoys the last few months of the school year and gets out and about spotting and identifying bumblebees and other pollinators.”
Director of Biodiversity in Schools, Mark Nolan stated:
“It’s never been more important for our young people to engage with nature - to both help their local biodiversity, but also experience the wellbeing benefits of spending time outdoors. We’re delighted to have SIRO support the Pollinator Project again this year, enabling us to get biodiversity resources out to schools around the country”.
Outlining SIRO’s support for the Initiative, CEO John Keaney stated:
“SIRO’s fibre connectivity enables more sustainable living by allowing more people to live and work locally. But we are conscious that all businesses must play a part in helping communities protect our natural environment. Giving the tools to the next generation to do that is key. This initiative supports the great work which Biodiversity in Schools undertakes in increasing awareness and respect for the importance of Ireland’s biodiversity”.
The Pollinator Project is now open for applicants. Schools and teachers who are interested in participating in the Pollinator Project Initiative can find out more details here.
SIRO, Ireland’s most advanced full fibre broadband operator, has announced the roll out of its network to  Kingscourt. SIRO is targeting 1,100 premises in the town, reaching over 3,000 residents. The company confirmed that the build work for more than half (600) Kingscourt premises is completed, and they are now already available to order from SIRO’s broadband retail partners. The remaining 500 premises will be available at the end of April. SIRO’s network is already available to almost 5,000 premises in Cavan town. Areas to benefit for the rollout in Kingscourt include: Thorndale, Dunaree Lane, Baileboro Road, An Tor Aonarach, Rockfield Heights, Oak Grove, Annagh, Ernans Hill, Dún Na Carraige, Church Street, Carrickleck, Cabra View, Ard Dun, Fana Rua and Springfield Court. Upon completion, approximately 1,128 homes will be seamlessly integrated into SIRO's fibre-optic network, marking a significant milestone in ensuring that Kingscourt’s homes and businesses have access to the highest standard of broadband connectivity. The roll-out of SIRO’s full fibre broadband network in Kingscourt is part of SIRO’s ongoing network expansion, targeting more than 700,000 premises in over 150 towns and cities across Ireland by 2026. To date, over 560,000 premises in 135 towns across the country can access the SIRO network. The company is investing more than €1 billion in delivering high speed, future-proofed broadband across Ireland. SIRO is a broadband wholesaler, which means that it designs, builds and maintains its full fibre broadband network. Homes and businesses can then order its services from over 20 retailers such as Virgin Media, Vodafone, Sky, Digiweb, Pure Telecom, Blacknight and many more. SIRO John Keaney Chief Executive Officer, said:
"We are pleased to bring SIRO’s fibre broadband network to Kingscourt, empowering residents with fast, reliable, and future-proofed connectivity. This investment reflects our ongoing commitment to enhancing digital infrastructure across Ireland, enabling communities to embrace the significant opportunities which high quality connectivity can provide."
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