SIRO Announce €10 Million Investment In Full Fibre Broadband Network For Three Offaly Towns

This week, we are delighted to announce we are rolling out a full fibre broadband network to three towns across County Offaly in 2023. This stage of our network roll-out and significant investment in the county, was announced as part of a formal presentation on Monday, to Offaly County Councillors and Council officials at a meeting in Clara. Our build works are underway in Tullamore where 600 premises can already access SIRO fibre broadband.

Where is SIRO rolling out in Offaly?

The roll out will include 9,000 homes and businesses across Tullamore, Edenderry and Birr, as part of our full fibre broadband roll out. Build works are already commenced in Edenderry also, with network roll-out in Birr expected to start late 2023 and into 2024. The full fibre roll out in Tullamore will cover 4,500 premises, whereas Edenderry will cover 2,400 premises and Birr will cover 2,300 premises.

What areas in Tullamore will SIRO cover?

Areas within Tullamore that will be covered under our full fibre roll out include (but are not limited to): Oakfield, Limefield, Chancery Park Road, Clonminch Wood, Hophill, Charleville Road, Marian Place, Carraig Cluain, Eiscier End Road, Clontarf Road, Thornsberry Estate, O’Molloy Street.

What areas in Edenderry will SIRO cover?

Areas within Edenderry that will be covered under SIRO’s full fibre roll out include (but are not limited to): The Sycamores, The Park, Killane Heights, Castleview Park, Kileden Lawn, Rectory Meadows, Assumption Road, Gilroy Avenue, Woodfield, Glenn na Carraige, Carrickhall Lane, Coneyburrow.

What areas in Birr will SIRO cover?

Areas within Birr that will be covered under SIRO’s full fibre roll out include (but are not limited to): Meadowville, Meadow Brook, John’s Place, Connaught Street, Sandymount View, Compton Row, Hollypark Drive, High Street, Main Street, Demesne View, Fairview, Burke’s Hill, Woodlane. Our roll-out of a full fibre broadband network in Offaly is part of the company’s ongoing network expansion, targeting 770,000 premises in 154 towns and cities across Ireland.  To date, over 490,000 premises nationally in 130 towns and cities can access SIRO’s network. Our full fibre network offers speeds of up to 2 gigabit per second for homes, and up to 10 gigabits for enterprise connections.

Who is SIRO?

SIRO is a joint venture company between ESB and Vodafone, founded in 2015, focused on delivering full fibre broadband to Ireland’s towns and cities. SIRO’s fibre broadband network is built on the ESB electricity infrastructure, trusted for its reliability and resilience. Overall, the company is investing more than €1 billion in delivering high speed, future proofed broadband across Ireland.   Commenting on the announcement, SIRO CEO, John Keaney, said:

“SIRO’s announcement of the addition of three Offaly towns to our broadband network means that these key regional towns can now experience the transformative effect that SIRO’s full fibre broadband can have on a community. “It means that these places instantly become a more attractive place to do business, work flexibly, and live as they become more connected with a high quality, fibre broadband. “The need for reliable, high quality, fibre connectivity grows each day as businesses operate using cloud technology, employees host meetings virtually, and more businesses use contactless and card payment methods each day. Up to access to fast and reliable broadband connectivity can be a pain point for business and consumers when using the latest technologies. However, full fibre broadband reduces these pain points.”

Offaly County Council CEO Anna Marie Delaney, welcoming SIRO’s rollout in County Offaly, noted:

“Connectivity is at the heart of how we live today. High quality broadband is central to how individuals, communities and businesses now communicate, learn or work each day. Having access to SIRO’s full fibre network within the county will support economic development, investment into the county and job creation. “SIRO’s fibre broadband network will be an important addition for the county’s long-term growth and development and align with the Council broader economic growth strategy. It will sustain employment locally but also underpin the creation of the jobs of the future, particularly as digital technologies become ever more critical to so many business sectors based in Offaly”.

SIRO is a wholesaler, and its broadband service is available to order from the following retailers in Offaly: Vodafone, Sky, Airwire, Pure, Digiweb, Fastcom, and Viatel, with more becoming available as the roll-out progresses. [mailchimp_modal button-text="Register Your Interest" title="Sign Up Form" position="mid"]

This week, we have announced we are bringing our network to Thurles, Nenagh and Tipperary as part of our ongoing roll out across County Tipperary.

When will SIRO connect Tipperary?

In Thurles and Nenagh, we will connect over 7,000 premises to high quality fibre broadband. The roll out in Thurles is on track to be completed during Q4 2023, with Nenagh following thereafter. This build will also target 2,250 premises in Tipperary town for late 2023/early 2024. The addition of Thurles, Nenagh and Tipperary town to the SIRO network will add to our existing significant footprint in the county.

Is SIRO already available in Tipperary?

Our full fibre broadband network is already available in the towns of Clonmel, Cashel and Roscrea. However, additional build works will also take place in Cashel to reach further premises in the town. To date, we have invested over €20 million in bringing world-class connectivity to Tipperary towns. Once the additional towns are connected, our full fibre broadband network will be available to over 50,000 Tipperary residents. [caption id="attachment_8255" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Pictured (L-R) SIRO Director of Corporate Affairs Amanda Glancy, Tipperary County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr. Roger Kennedy, Tipperary County Council CEO Joe McGrath and SIRO Director of Build Denis Cambridge.[/caption] The announcement on Thurles, Nenagh and Tipperary town was made by senior SIRO management at a Presentation to the Elected Members of Tipperary County Council, which took place in the Civic Offices in Clonmel. The presentation was attended by Councillor Roger Kennedy, Cathaoirleach and Joe McGrath, Chief Executive of Tipperary County Council. Commenting on the announcement, SIRO CEO, John Keaney said:

“SIRO’s ongoing roll out in County Tipperary demonstrates our commitment to delivering high quality, fast, resilient and future proofed fibre broadband. Thurles is now SIRO’s fourth town in Tipperary to receive our full fibre connection, making the town a more attractive place to invest in, work, and live in. “Overall, once build works are complete SIRO’s network will be available in six Tipperary towns. Thurles, Nenagh and Tipperary town as well as all other SIRO towns in Tipperary, will have access to speeds of up 2 Gigabit for homes and up to 10 Gigabits for enterprise connections.”

[caption id="attachment_8254" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Pictured SIRO and Tipperary County Council representatives.[/caption] Welcoming SIRO, Councillor Roger Kennedy, Cathaoirleach of Tipperary County Council said,

“We are delighted to see the further expansion of SIRO’s full fibre broadband network across a number of towns in County Tipperary. As the digital economy grows, we must ensure that its opportunities and benefits are felt in every town, village and outlying rural area in our county. We need a digital infrastructure that supports business transformation and connected communities and one that provides nationwide coverage with sufficient capacity to ensure that data can flow at the volume, speed and reliability required to meet the demands of modern life.”

Welcoming SIRO’s announcement, Joe MacGrath, Chief Executive of Tipperary County Council said,

“The expansion of SIRO’s Full Fibre broadband network is welcome news for the County. We believe that, by promoting the digital agenda through a dynamic workforce and enhanced infrastructure, we can secure sustainable economic growth and prosperity into the future. “Secure, high quality, universal digital connectivity is central to realising economic, social and environmental opportunities. This includes enabling greater remote working; new job opportunities; new markets and customers for businesses; more efficient and accessible public services; more flexible working; contributing to the reinvigoration of our towns and villages. Digital technologies can also have an important role to play in reducing energy and resource use and enabling decarbonisation.”

Who can I purchase SIRO broadband from in Tipperary?

SIRO is a wholesaler full fibre broadband operator, meaning its broadband services can be ordered directly from the following retailers in County Tipperary: Sky, Vodafone, Digiweb, Blacknight, Pure Telecom, Fastcom Pure Telecom and Viatel. [mailchimp_modal button-text="Register Your Interest" title="Sign Up Form" position="mid"]

Today we are delighted to announce we will be expanding our network to Leitrim during 2023. Carrick-on-Shannon is the latest town to benefit from our full fibre network. The roll out will include over 1,800 homes and businesses in Carrick-on-Shannon as part of our full fibre broadband roll out to Leitrim. The build works commenced in April of this year, with the rollout of the area expected to complete in Q4 2023. [caption id="attachment_8218" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] SIRO representatives pictured with members of Carrick on Shannon Town Committee and Leitrim County Council officials.[/caption]

Where is SIRO rolling out to in Carrick-on-Shannon?

Areas within Carrick-on-Shannon that will be covered under our 100% fibre roll out include (but are not limited to): Oaklands Manor, Cara Court, Autumn View, Summerhill Grove, Glenpatrick, Shannon View, Shannon Lodge, Cnoc na Sí, Marina Road, Elysian Meadows, Ath na Rí, Maigh Glas. The roll-out of a full fibre broadband network in Carrick on Shannon is part of our ongoing network expansion, targeting 770,000 premises in 154 towns and cities across Ireland. To date, over 490,000 premises in 126 towns across the country can access the SIRO network. [caption id="attachment_8219" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Pictured President of Carrick on Shannon Chamber of Commerce Colm McGrath and SIRO Director of Corporate Affairs Amanda Glancy.[/caption]

Who can I order SIRO Broadband with?

Homes and businesses can order SIRO 100% fibre broadband from our network of retailers, including Vodafone, Airwire, Sky, Pure Telecom, Digiweb, Viatel, Blacknight, Fastcom and Telcom. SIRO 100% fibre is available to both homes and businesses within Carrick-on-Shannon, with speeds of up to 2 gigabits per second available for homes in the area, and up to 10 gigabits for enterprise connections. SIRO, founded back in 2015, is a joint venture company between ESB and Vodafone, focused on delivering full fibre broadband to Ireland’s towns and cities. SIRO’s fibre broadband network is built on the ESB electricity infrastructure, trusted for its reliability and resilience. Commenting on the announcement, SIRO CEO, John Keaney, said:

“Today’s announcement for Carrick-on-Shannon is part of SIRO’s wider efforts to bring resilient, scalable, fibre broadband to towns across Ireland. We are pleased to be expanding our network to reach Leitrim’s County town as part of our ongoing network expansion. “At SIRO, we understand both the need and huge demand for fast and high-quality broadband for homes and businesses today. Having access to reliable connectivity enables Carrick-on-Shannon to become a more attractive place to live and work.” “With SIRO’s broadband network available in Carrick-on Shannon, residents and businesses will have access to one of Europe’s most advanced and future proofed networks. It will   facilitate hybrid working for employees, reducing the need for unsustainable commutes to larger towns and cities. “For employers they can use cloud and digital technologies for the smooth running of their company networks. Local businesses will be able to thrive as faster and seamless online payments and orders, such as in the hospitality sector, can be smoothly facilitated.”

Cathaoirleach of Leitrim County Council, Councillor Ita Reynolds Flynn, stated:

“I am delighted to see this announcement today that SIRO are rolling out Fibre Broadband in Carrick on Shannon ensuring a 100% fibre connection to over 1800 homes and businesses in the area. The local authority welcome the SIRO installation as it will have significant economic benefits for the area supporting faster and seamless connectivity as well as giving confidence to businesses in their use of digital technologies and supporting their company networks and hybrid working opportunities.”

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[caption id="attachment_8159" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] (L-R, Aoife Cheung, Office Manager, Portershed, Amanda Nelson, CEO of Vodafone Ireland, Mary Rogers, CEO of PorterShed, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Simon Coveney, Amanda Glancy, Director of Corporate Affairs, SIRO, Sheila Kavanagh, Network Director, Vodafone Ireland, Anthony Shaughnessy,Community and Production, PorterShed)[/caption] The official opening coincides with the organisation's 7th birthday. Founded in 2016 the PorterShed has to date supported the creation of more than 835 high value jobs in the region. The new building, funded by the Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment through Enterprise Ireland's Regional Enterprise Development Fund (REDF) initiative, will become home to an additional 200 indigenous tech startup members, offering a collaborative innovation space, access to SIRO and Vodafone’s full fibre broadband, production studio, boardroom podcast studio, rooftop garden, and conference rooms. PorterShed has already established itself as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship under the banner of Galway City Innovation District, creating a down-town innovation community in the heart of Galway City. [caption id="attachment_8156" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] (L-R, Sheila Kavanagh, Network Director, Vodafone Ireland, Robert Marshall, Senior Public Affairs, Vodafone Ireland, Amanda Nelson, CEO Vodafone Ireland, Amanda Glancy, Corporate Affairs Director, SIRO.)[/caption] Speaking at the official opening, Minister Coveney said he continues to be impressed by the growth of the tech sector in Galway and acknowledged the impact of the PorterShed in the region since it first opened in 2016.

“I am delighted to be here today to officially open PorterShed a Dó in the heart of Galway city. This remarkable state-of-the art facility in the former iconic Connaught Tribune Building will play a central role in enabling the growth of scaling enterprises in the West and further afield. The opening of Portershed a Dó, supported by over €2.9m in funding from my Department’s Regional Enterprise Development Fund, will further cement Galway’s reputation as hub for innovation and provide high potential businesses with the space and support they need to flourish and prosper. It is an example of one of the many enterprise initiatives the Government has supported throughout the country. The West Regional Enterprise Plan is responsive to the opportunities and needs of the region and focuses on regional collaboration. PorterShed is an example of the power of that collaboration, and I hope and expect that it will inspire similar initiatives in the region. I wish the centre and all the companies and entrepreneurs that avail of the facilities on offer every success for the future.”

[caption id="attachment_8157" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] (L-R, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, speaking with Siren, member of PorterShed present with Mayor of Galway, Clodagh Higgins, Sheila Kavanagh, Network Director, Vodafone Ireland, Senator Sean Kyne, Government Chief Whip and Minister of State at the Department of Health, Hildegard Naughton, Mary Rogers, CEO PorterShed, Robert Marshall, Senior Public Affairs, Vodafone Ireland, and Amanda Nelson, CEO, Vodafone Ireland.)[/caption] Maurice O'Gorman, Chairperson of PorterShed, said:

"We are thrilled to be celebrating our 7th birthday by opening this new building, which will provide even more opportunities for tech startups to innovate and grow. We are grateful for the ongoing support of Enterprise Ireland who have been pivotal partners and funders for the PorterShed since 2016.”

John Keaney, CEO of SIRO, said:

 "We are pleased to be a part of the PorterShed story. Launched in 2017, the GigaBitHub Initiative has enabled digital hubs across Ireland to thrive by providing enterprise-grade symmetric, full fibre broadband. In 2022, the Portershed became the 17th hub to join the initiative, and we are proud to have played a role in supporting the growth and development of startups and innovative businesses in the Galway region. We look forward to continuing our partnership with PorterShed and supporting their mission to foster a culture of innovation in the community.”

[caption id="attachment_8158" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] (L-R, Amanda Glancy, Corporate Affairs Director, SIRO, Amanda Nelson, CEO, Vodafone Ireland)[/caption] Amanda Nelson, CEO at Vodafone Ireland said:

‘It is fantastic to see hubs just like the PorterShed continue to go from strength to strength. Today’s opening of PorterShed a Dó, demonstrates the continued value, demand and need for smart working hubs throughout the country. Through our Gigabit hub initiative our goal has always been to empower local businesses and communities through connectivity. The PorterShed is a shining example of what’s possible when we look at how connectivity can enable and enhance the work life balance of the people it serves, ultimately allowing them to pursue their careers within the area they are from, without sacrificing their quality of life or being forced to move to larger cities or abroad’’

The PorterShed is also supported by AIB, KPMG, Enterprise Ireland and The Western Development Commission. SIRO and Vodafone are currently seeking applications for the GigaBitHub initiative. For more information, please visit www.siro.ie/gigabit-hub For more information about PorterShed and its new building, please visit www.portershed.com

County Cork is about to experience a major upgrade to its broadband infrastructure as we aim to bring the SIRO 100% fibre broadband network to eight more towns across the region.

What towns are SIRO rolling out to in County Cork?

The SIRO fibre rollout across County Cork began in 2017, connecting over 1,500 homes and business across Skibbereen to Gigabit broadband for the first time. Since then, the SIRO fibre broadband network in Cork has grown significantly. Over 60,000 homes and businesses across the county can now connect to Ireland's most advanced broadband network, meaning over 162,000 people can now do life different with SIRO 100% fibre broadband. This year, alone, SIRO will be available to an additional 20,000 premises across Cork City and eight regional towns. SIRO is already available in towns such as Ballincollig, Carrigaline, Carrigtwohill, Mallow, Little Island and Skibbereen. In addition, the SIRO network will expand to six new town as part of our network expansion: Bandon, Cobh, Fermoy, Mitchelstown, Kinsale, Passage West and Youghal, representing an additional investment of €25 million, bringing SIRO's total network investment in the county to over €125 million.

SIRO Network Launch Event

On the 24th March as part a launch event and presentation made by SIRO CEO John Keaney to the Minister of Finance, Micheal McGrath T.D., Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Danny Collins, Elected Members of Cork County Council and Chief Executive, Tim Lucey, we announced that six of the eight new towns in Cork are the priority for 2023, while our rollout to the other Cork towns will continue over the coming years. Additional areas will be announced in 2024. Welcoming SIRO’s announcement, Minister for Finance, Micheal McGrath TD, said,

“This expansion of SIRO’s fibre broadband network is very welcome news for Cork County. Fibre broadband makes remote working a real possibility and it helps to breathe life back into our towns. It is also great news for businesses and farmers in particular who are now able to conduct more of their business online. Having a high-quality broadband connection provides opportunities for people to start up a new business and means that location is no longer a barrier for many start-ups. Creating a fully connected Ireland is a key priority for Government and it is only possible through partnership between public and private investment working together.”

Welcoming SIRO, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Danny Collins said,

“We are delighted to see the further expansion of the SIRO fibre broadband network in Cork County. Access to reliable high-quality broadband is essential for our business community as well as our residents. It will unlock further opportunities for economic development in Cork towns and will support remote working for those wishing to reduce their commute.”

Commenting on the announcement, SIRO CEO John Keaney noted:

“Today’s announcement is good news for towns across Cork many of whom have had to endure poor connectivity until now. The arrival of SIRO’s full fibre broadband to towns across Cork will bring them new opportunities and safeguard their future. Having access to SIRO’s reliable and resilient broadband, with speeds of up to 2 Gigabits for homes and up to 10 Gigabit for businesses, ensure people and communities can live and work locally, run their businesses and stay connected with ease. Demand for high quality broadband across Cork remains very strong. SIRO is responding to that demand with more 60,000 premises across Cork city and towns who can already avail of our broadband network. SIRO’s work in 2023 will expand our footprint in Cork this year even further. And beyond that, we are already looking ahead to more areas in Cork”.

SIRO 100% fibre broadband is already available to over 60,000 homes and businesses across County Cork from leading services providers such as Digiweb, Sky, Viatel and Vodafone. As SIRO is a Fibre-to-the-Home network, deployed across the ESB's existing infrastructure, you are ensured a fast, reliable and sustainable network. To find out if your home or business can connect to SIRO, 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"]

We are delighted to announced our sponsorship of a new schools’ biodiversity project which aims to raise awareness amongst primary school children of the importance of protecting Ireland’s pollinators and their natural habitats. The project was officially launched by Minister of State for Communications and the Circular Economy, Ossian Smyth TD at Gaelscoil Shliabh Rua, Ballyogan, Dublin. The launch was also attended by SIRO CEO John Keaney, Principal of Gaelscoil Shliabh Rua Ruth Mhic Adaim and teachers and pupils from the school. This sponsorship will allow 100 schools across Ireland to participate in a biodiversity project, focused on protecting native pollinators. The project will include school workshops with biodiversity experts; pollinator packs for each school, with resources to make their school grounds more pollinator-friendly, and additional free online materials for pupils. The company is aiming to become Ireland’s most sustainable broadband provider, whilst enabling the communities it serves to live more sustainably. Recent environmental initiatives by SIRO include converting its fleet to electric vehicles and becoming a signatory of the UN Global Compact.   Biodiversity in Schools is a national organisation which has been providing education on biodiversity to schools for the last 10 years. They aim to address Ireland’s biodiversity crisis by improving pupil’s eco-literacy and understanding of their natural environment. The overall goal for the project is to build a ‘nature-positive’ future for Ireland and for future generations to come. Minister Ossian Smyth noted:

“Young people will be our leaders in restoring nature in Ireland.  This project means that students from 100 schools nationwide will work with experts and their teachers and communities to make their schools more pollinator-friendly, planting native species and contributing to a better, more biodiverse future for us all.  Well done to SIRO for supporting this important work.”

SIRO’s CEO John Keaney noted:

“SIRO is an Irish company rolling out our fibre to the home broadband network to communities across Ireland. As we do so, we see first-hand the importance of biodiversity in enhancing the lives and wellbeing of those communities. “Our hope from this project is to foster young biodiversity champions in communities across Ireland encouraging them to protect and preserve our native habitats and biodiversity. “Our sponsorship of this school pollinator project makes a small contribution to this task. We are pleased to be able to contribute to the valuable work which Biodiversity in Schools have been undertaking in this area for the last ten years,” added Mr. Keaney.

Commenting on the partnership, Mark Nolan, Director of Biodiversity in Schools noted:

“We are pleased to have SIRO onboard as a sponsor for the pollinator project. Increasing young people's awareness of the important contribution biodiversity makes to our health and wellbeing is critical." “It’s also important for Irish companies to be aware of the biodiversity crisis we are experiencing, and to help by joining us to tackle this issue together. This initiative provides the resources needed to empower pupils with the knowledge and skills on how to help save and nurture our environment.”

Schools who wish to participate in the project can register their details at www.biodiversityinschools.com/pollinator-project.

The internet probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think of sustainability. Instead, you might picture smokestacks, polluting factories, or open pit mines. However, the infrastructure operated to provide broadband requires electricity to power active network equipment and data storage facilities.   Information and communications technology (ICT) is one of the fastest growing greenhouse gas emitting sectors, accounting for 3-5% of global emissions (European Commission 2022), which is on par with the aviation sector. The challenge of the growing energy needs of the ICT sector is being tackled by major companies setting ambitious targets. Microsoft has set a target to be carbon negative by 2030, and Intel have committed to using 100% renewable energy by 2030.  

The role of SMEs in Ireland’s Sustainable Development

We can’t leave it all up to the world’s biggest companies, however. With market pressures, we see big companies turn on a dime and roll back their previously ambitious targets. BP’s profits doubled in 2022, yet the oil and gas company reduced its emissions reduction target for 2030 down to 20-30% from its previous 35-40% target (Reuters). This is where the role of small to medium enterprises (SMEs) comes in.    SMEs are businesses with less than 250 employees. In 2020, Ireland’s SMEs accounted for 99.8% of the total number of enterprises and generated 41.9% of total turnover in the business economy (Irish SME Association). Given their critical contribution to the economy, SMEs are perfectly placed to be sustainability vanguards.   Being small gives SMEs the advantage of agility, with the flexibility to make decisions and implement meaningful changes quickly. SMEs can have a higher exposure to sustainability-related risks compared to larger companies due to their limited influence over supply chain risks and smaller cash reserves. But they also stand to gain more, with the benefits of integrating sustainability as a core value being very clear.   From cost savings and improved efficiencies to higher employee engagement and satisfaction, improved reputation and increased consumer satisfaction, SMEs with a clear sustainability strategy can obtain competitive advantages.   [caption id="attachment_7906" align="aligncenter" width="702"] siro sustainability[/caption]

How Sustainability is a Driver of Innovation for SMEs

SIRO is an SME, and with that there are additional challenges for certain sustainability initiatives due to fewer resources and reduced internal capacity. However, these same conditions can also make SMEs fertile ground for innovation.   Sustainable innovation differs from traditional innovation due to the equal balance given to economic, environmental, and social considerations. Sustainable innovation improves the sustainability performance of a business while simultaneously minimising its impact.   It is becoming increasingly important that SMEs recognise the importance of sustainable innovation as a driver in differentiating their products and services, as this will ultimately improve the company’s prospects in the market. Driven by social changes and cutting-edge technology, sustainable innovation in SMEs can be quickly investigated and adopted given the short pipeline between employees and decision-makers.   Sustainability in innovation benefits everyone. For SMEs, innovation enhances their competitive edge leading to enhanced market opportunities and in turn increasing their business’ resilience (which further increases the business’ sustainability and so on). On the other hand, as products and services continue to improve, this positively impacts on consumers’ social and economic development. Digital technology is a particularly important driver for sustainable innovation, as well as an enabler for innovations that contribute to social and economic challenges.   For example, as SIRO’s network grows, access to fibre to the home broadband  is made available to many homes and small businesses that were previously not serviced, opening digital transformation opportunities for these communities.  

Building Resilient, Reliable, And Sustainable Infrastructure

SIRO is committed to providing broadband connectivity to as many people across Ireland as possible, while improving the sustainability of our infrastructure at the same time.   SIRO’s network is being built using ESB’s existing infrastructure, limiting our footprint, and removing excessive resource consumption at the design stage. Continuous innovations in fibre to the home technology increasingly contribute to a sustainable broadband future.  SIRO is deploying an XGS-PON fibre network, technology that supports high-speed 10 gigabit per second data transfers. By delivering this now, we can avoid a future upgrade cycle, eliminating unnecessary waste and materials.   We have embedded a future-proof approach through the delivery of XGS-PON, which also provides higher bandwidth with lower energy consumption requirements. Sustainability goes beyond just the physical footprint and environmental impact of an organisation’s infrastructure however, encompassing the three pillars of environment, social and governance.  By deploying XGS-PON we are providing greater reliability for our communities due to the absence of active network elements, improving access and affordability in an equitable way.  

Opportunities For SMEs To Pursue Sustainability

The limited internal capacity and resources available to SMEs doesn’t prevent action on sustainability, but it does require a targeted approach. You can’t boil the ocean. Instead of trying to act on everything, reflect on the business’ priorities by identifying what topics matter most to your stakeholders and where your business stands to make the greatest impact. A materiality assessment is a great tool to use to begin this process.   Once you know what matters, select a limited number of meaningful goals to track your progress against, rather than spreading your resources too thin. For example, SIRO has a “Science-Based Target” which provides an option for SMEs to set an emissions reduction target that is in line with what climate science deems necessary. Finally, by focusing on transformative change and collaboration with peers, SMEs can be on the frontlines of sustainability.   SMEs cannot afford to be unsustainable, with greater exposure to sustainability-related risks due to their size and reduced resilience compared to larger companies. Sustainability-driven innovation provides a key opportunity for SMEs to differentiate their products and services. Going further than just being value-adding, sustainability can be harnessed by SMEs to access new markets, improve consumer confidence, increase employee engagement and satisfaction, and attract and retain talent.  [lookup_modal type="eircode" button-text="Search Your Eircode Today" position="mid" title="Input your Eircode to check whether SIRO is available at your location"]

Broadband is an essential part of our everyday lives. It allows us to connect with friends, to work from home and to relax with our smart devices. With so much information out there about broadband, it can be confusing to know which internet connection is best for your needs. You might be thinking what kind of broadband can I get? Fibre broadband in Ireland has been around since 2015. Read on to learn five facts about fibre you may not have known.

1 The first national 100% fibre broadband network

The first 100% fibre to the home broadband network in Ireland was launched by SIRO back in 2015. SIRO, in a joint venture between ESB and Vodafone, had the aim of delivering the first fibre to the home network in Ireland, disrupting the then copper dominated broadband market.

2. Growth of fibre network reach across Ireland

Have you ever wondered; can I get fibre broadband where I live? SIRO is now live in more than 90 towns and counting, with an aim to connect 154 towns by 2026, so SIRO’s network footprint may already or soon be available for your home or business soon. As well as this, the fibre broadband market share is growing, with Comreg’s Q3 2022 report showing there were 463k FTTP subscriptions, compared to just 340k FTTP subscriptions in Q3 2021.

3. Speed capabilities

Did you know SIRO was one of the first broadband networks in Europe to fully upgrade to XGS-PON technology, unlocking speeds of up to 10 Gigabits per second. One of the main benefits of having fibre broadband is being able to connect as many devices as you need at a time, without delays or lags. This is ideal for working from home, or to facilitate the day to day running of a business… You will no longer be asking yourself why is my broadband so slow?

4. Lowest latency on the market

Latency measures the length of time it takes to transfer data from one source to another. SIRO’s fibre broadband boasts some of the lowest latency on the market, with a ping of 20 milliseconds. This makes it perfect for online gaming, streaming in 4k and 8k, and video calls. Low latency allows you to stay connected and to download files and applications quickly.

5. Weather resistant broadband

Can weather affect fibre optic broadband? Many are under the assumption that their broadband can be affected by stormy weather. Thankfully, this isn’t a worry for those who have a SIRO fibre broadband connection. Fibre is much more weather proofed than other broadband types on the market. Fibre makes use of light to transmit data contrary to copper, which is more vulnerable to storms and other climate impacts. Fibre in Ireland is here to stay. SIRO is rolling out the next generation of broadband in Ireland across 154 towns. It’s resiliency, speeds and reliability are unmatched. With the above in mind, the next step is to find out if SIRO’s 100% fibre broadband is available to your home or business. [lookup_modal type="eircode" button-text="Search Your Eircode Today" position="mid" title="Input your Eircode to check whether SIRO is available at your location"]

Ireland is renowned across the world as a hub for innovation and growth. According to recent data from CRIFVision-net, there were 25,695 new start-ups in Ireland last year, showing an increase of 17% from the previous year. Access to funding is one key reason why there has been a significant rise in start-ups in recent years. Large amounts of funding have been provided to aid new start-ups in the country, with findings from a survey by the Irish Venture Capital Association showing that in 2021 €1.3 billion venture capital funding was acquired for Irish tech-based SMEs and start-ups. For Irish entrepreneurs, starting up a business can be both a challenging and exciting time. Businesses starting out have a lot to consider before they begin operating, and with the pace of digitisation accelerating, the application of this technology in the most effective and productive manner is an essential for start-ups.

Key technology considerations for start-ups include:

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is a fundamental issue for any business in our digital era. Start-ups, in their infancy are often most at risk to cybersecurity attacks. So, it’s important that start-ups consider how they are going to protect their customers, business operations and employees from external threats. Implementing simple and cost-effective measures such as two-factor authentication or investing in a threat detection system will help keep your business secure. In addition, a good practice is to backup data regularly, so that in the case of an attack, important data is kept safe. A recent survey conducted by a renowned Irish ISP found that one in five Irish businesses had yet to put a cyber security policy in place within their firm. This is alarming as businesses, especially smaller/newer ones, are easier targets for cyber-attacks. Cyber threats can often occur due to human error, making staff awareness of the risks essential. While budgets might be tight for start-ups there are tonnes of free online training and resources available which businesses can avail of.

Social Media

Software company, Sprout Social, notes that as of January 2022, there are 3.96 billion total social media users across all platforms. From this, it is clear to see why many businesses are opting to have an online presence to drive brand awareness and/or direct sales. Having a social media presence is key, as it allows new firms to directly engage with the public, to create a brand identity, and overall to increase brand awareness attracting new customers. Sprout Social research also found that that 55% of consumers learn about new brands on social media. When deciding to use social media to promote your business, it is important to choose which platforms to use, taking into account your businesses target audience, goals and product. Small businesses may not be able to afford to be on all platforms, so choosing the correct platforms will be crucial for the firm’s performance. Lyfe marketing outlines the top 6 social media platforms for businesses in 2022, which are Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter and LinkedIn.  

Data analytics

According to analytics platform, MicroStrategy, 59% of organisations around the world use big data analytics. Data analytics can be an extremely useful tool to integrate into your new business. Using analytics can help entrepreneurs identify trends and patterns, identify issues and areas to improve, and overall can help develop goals and strategies for going forward. Analysing analytics can also help new businesses measure performance of campaigns and identify what generates clicks/traffic to their website and social media impressions. By analysing this data, firms will have a better understanding of their target market and know how to generate better responses to their campaigns and posts.    

Access to Wi-Fi

Something which can often be overlooked is the importance of having a stable Wi-Fi connection. The biggest rationale for high quality connectivity include support for business operations, use of Cloud technology, automation and online sales. In addition, researching competitors, identifying the target market, engaging with staff via Teams or other video call meetings and the general every day running of the business, all rely on having a good connection. For business, access to good quality Wi-Fi, no longer means just access to your own office building. Fibre broadband is changing both how and where work takes places. Start-ups have greater leeway to be more flexible about their business location. Digital hubs assist businesses across Ireland by providing them with access to gold standard connectivity locally, so that their new/existing business can thrive. Choosing to operate from a digital hub could be a cost-effective way of bringing a new business to life, whilst also bringing teams together in person. Equally, many start-ups have chosen to work fully remote and again the importance of a reliable broadband connection cannot be overstressed, in terms of the overall ambition and success of the business.     To find out if SIRO is available to your new business click here SIRO 100% Fibre Broadband, Ireland's Fastest Broadband for Business

SIRO, the fibre broadband network operator, has today announced the roll out of its broadband network in Roscommon town. The build works commenced in autumn last year. The company has confirmed that significant progress has already made in its delivery of the new network, with almost 70% of the project now complete. The company is investing €3 million in bringing Ireland’s most advanced broadband network to the town.  

When is SIRO coming to Roscommon?

SIRO is rolling out its high speed, reliable fibre broadband network to 2,350 homes and businesses in the town overall.  Build works for a majority of the premises targeted, (1,600 premises), are already completed and the new broadband service is now available to order. The remaining 750 premises in the town are expected to be completed during Spring 2023. 

Where is SIRO rolling out to in Roscommon Town?

Areas within Roscommon set to benefit from the roll out include Main Street, Riverdale, Lanesborough Street, Saint Ciaran’s Park, Pine View, Castle Street, Sunny Side House, Cherry Drive, Castle Apartments, Knights Court, Celtic Avenue, Cloonbrackna, Brookvale Avenue, and Lús Leana.  Homes and businesses can now order SIRO’s fibre broadband from its network of retailers, including Vodafone, Sky, Airwire, Pure Telecom, Digiweb, Fastcom and Viatel.  SIRO’s full fibre network is available to both homes and businesses within Roscommon town, with speeds of up to 2 gigabit per second available for homes, and up to 10 gigabits for enterprise connections. 

What is SIRO broadband? 

SIRO is a joint venture company between ESB and Vodafone, founded in 2015, focused on delivering full fibre broadband to Ireland’s towns and cities. SIRO’s fibre broadband network is built on the ESB electricity infrastructure, trusted for its reliability and resilience. Overall, the company is investing more than €1 billion in delivering high speed, future proofed broadband across Ireland. 

How Broadband Supports A Community

Commenting on the announcement, SIRO Chief Executive Officer, John Keaney, said:  

“SIRO has one of the most advanced fibre broadband networks in Europe, so we are really pleased to be bringing this network to Roscommon town.  “Individuals and businesses are all too aware of the value of a reliable and resilient broadband connection. It allows them to stay connected at home or when running their businesses, removing what can be a major pain point in daily life if their existing broadband is poor.  “Fibre broadband can have a transformative effect on regional towns. By providing a scalable, future-proofed and sustainable fibre network, it re-enforces Roscommon town’s attractiveness as a place to live, work and do business,” added Mr. Keaney.    

Shane Tiernan Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council stated:  

 “This multi-million-euro investment and delivery of full fibre broadband by SIRO in Roscommon town is to be congratulated and welcomed. High speed reliable digital connectivity is an essential requirement to allow Roscommon town to flourish commercially, economically and socially.    “The availability of SIRO’s full fibre broadband infrastructure greatly supports Roscommon County Council’s ambition for the development of an innovative collaborative digital society and economy in Roscommon over the coming years. This advancement by SIRO will undoubtedly have a very positive impact in supporting our constant drive for Roscommon to be a great place to live, work, invest in and visit”, added Mr. Tiernan.  

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