Only Half Of Irish Classrooms Now Have Nature Tables

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."

[lookup_modal type="eircode" button-text="Search Your Eircode" position="mid" title="Input your Eircode to check whether SIRO is available at your location"]

SIRO, Ireland’s most advanced broadband network operator, has today announced that it is bringing its full fibre broadband network to Limerick’s Newcastle West. SIRO confirmed today that the company will provide full fibre connectivity to almost 3,100 premises in Newcastle West, with 2,000 premises already completed and today ready for order through SIRO’s retail partners such as Virgin Media, Vodafone, Sky, Digiweb, Pure Telecom, Ivertec and many more. The remaining 1,100 premises will be completed by SIRO and available by August. Areas to benefit for the rollout in Newcastle West include: South Quay, Templegreen, Churchtown Road, Church Street, Knightscourt, Knockane Road, Bothar Bui, Chestnut Gardens, Chapel Close, Dunquin, Arraview, Glenquin Manor, Killeline Heights, Killeline Road, Saint Ita’s Gardens, Saint Ita’s Roads, The Paddocks, Woodfield Green, Woodfield Grove, and Woodfield Park. With almost 35,000 homes and businesses already able to avail of SIRO’s network in Limerick City, SIRO's introduction to Newcastle West, the county’s second largest urban centre, marks a significant step in enhancing digital infrastructure in the county. The roll-out of a full fibre broadband network in Newcastle West is part of SIRO’s ongoing network expansion, targeting more than 700,000 premises in 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, Ivertec, Blacknight and many more. All details can be found on www.SIRO.ie . SIRO John Keaney Chief Executive Officer, noted:

"We are excited to bring SIRO fibre broadband to Newcastle West, providing residents with access to fast and reliable internet services. Our goal is to enhance connectivity in the county and empower local residents with the tools they need to stay connected and thrive in today's digital world."

[lookup_modal type="eircode" button-text="Search Your Eircode" position="mid" title="Input your Eircode to check whether SIRO is available at your location"]

SIRO, Ireland's leading 100% fibre broadband operator, has announced the arrival of its network in Claremorris, with work now underway to build its network across the town. Claremorris will be the fourth Mayo town to benefit from SIRO's future-proofed technology, joining the towns of Ballina, Westport and Castlebar which already enjoy SIRO’s full fibre network. SIRO build works commenced in recent weeks and are expected to be completed over the course of 2024, with homeowners and businesses being able to order services later this year. SIRO is targeting 1,500 homes and businesses in Claremorris, bringing the total number of premises reached by SIRO in Mayo to over 8,700, with Ballina, Westport and Castlebar already part of the SIRO network. The announcement was made as part of a presentation by senior SIRO representatives to the monthly meeting of Claremorris Swinford Municipal District  on Wednesday. Cathaoirleach of Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District Sinn Fein Councillor Gerry Murray welcomed the SIRO representatives and their announcement on Claremorris, whilst acknowledging the importance of high-quality fibre connectivity for all Mayo homes and businesses. [caption id="attachment_9133" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Pictured at the announcement of the SIRO network expansion into Claremorris where over 1,500 homes and businesses will have access to full fibre broadband are Joanne Grehan, Director of Services at Mayo County Council and Amanda Glancy, SIRO with elected members of Mayo County Council Claremorris and Swinford Municipal District. Over 8,700 premises across county Mayo will enjoy fibre connectivity upon completion of this expansion. Photo: Alison Laredo[/caption] Areas in Claremorris which will benefit from the roll out include (but are not limited to): Claremont, Lisnaboley, Clare, Carrowbeg East, and Mayfields. SIRO first rolled out to Castlebar in 2017, reaching over 3,000 premises in the town. Since then, SIRO has been steadily rolling out its network across the county. In Westport and Ballina over 2,100 premises respectively can access SIRO’s network. This means 7,200 premises can already access SIRO’s network in Mayo. Once Claremorris is complete , SIRO’s network will  be available to over 8,700 premises across the county, providing speeds of up to two gigabits for homes and up to ten gigabits for enterprise. The roll-out of a full fibre broadband network in Claremorris is part of SIRO’s ongoing network expansion, targeting more than 700,000 premises in towns and cities across Ireland by 2026. To date, over 550,000 premises in 135 towns across the country can access the SIRO network. SIRO is investing more than €1 billion in delivering high speed, future proofed broadband across Ireland. Mayo County Council Director of Services Joanne Grehan noted:

“Fast and reliable connectivity is an essential service for homes and businesses. 100% fibre broadband is now accepted as the highest standard available to Irish consumers. “It’s a good news story for Claremorris that SIRO is bringing its full fibre network to the town. It will unlock multiple benefits for the community. These include allowing more people to seamlessly work from home, undertake online education or stay connected to family and friends. For businesses, with reliable fibre broadband they can use technology in areas which really matter to their bottom line and for their long-term growth such as online sales, customer service, processing payments or facilitating video calls with colleagues and customers”, added Ms. Grehan.

SIRO CEO John Keaney said:

"We're delighted to reach Claremorris, marking another significant milestone in our Mayo rollout. SIRO is committed to bringing the transformative power of fibre broadband to regional Ireland, and Claremorris residents will now enjoy the same incredible speeds and reliability experienced by their neighbours in Westport, Ballina, and Castlebar. Full fibre connectivity is just the beginning for Claremorris, and we look forward to seeing how our network empowers businesses, homes, and individuals to thrive in the digital age."

To find out if when SIRO is available to you, register your interest here. [mailchimp_modal button-text="Register Your Interest" title="Sign Up Form" position="mid"]

Research published today by SIRO, the wholesale broadband operator investing more than €1 billion in a future proofed broadband network across Ireland, has revealed that just over half of all Irish businesses (53%) are still not on a fibre broadband connection. Micro companies are lagging behind most, with approximately half of businesses with less than ten staff (51%) are not yet using fibre compared to just under a third (30%) of medium or larger businesses without fibre. SIRO’s research, undertaken by Amárach Research, surveyed over 270 Irish businesses, ranging from small to large enterprises, on their broadband usage, experience and satisfaction with their connectivity overall. The analysis comes against a backdrop of accelerating fibre broadband rollouts nationally; increased access to full fibre broadband, particularly in towns and cities where a majority of businesses are located; and the fact that the switch-off of outdated copper broadband networks will shortly commence. Key findings from the research include:

• Use of fibre broadband: Less than half of businesses surveyed (47%) are currently using a fibre broadband connection.
• Switching rates: While one third (32%) of business have switched to fibre broadband over the last five years, worryingly a similar amount (35%) have not.
• Differing switching rates between small and bigger businesses: There is a 20% gap in rates of businesses who have switched to fibre broadband depending on business size. More than half of small businesses (51%) are not yet using fibre compared to 30% of medium or larger businesses who are not.
• Barriers to switching to fibre broadband: Largest barriers cited by business to switching to fibre broadband include perceived cost (26%), fibre not available in their area (22%), lack of awareness on fibre and its benefits (21%), or a belief that it would not make a difference to their business (9%).
• Importance of broadband: 80% of business respondents believe that broadband plays an important role in their business operation.
• Fibre broadband performance: Of those businesses which have switched to fibre broadband, the vast majority (86%) found that fibre broadband had met their expectations.

Commenting on the findings, SIRO’s Chief Commercial Officer Ronan Whelan said:

“The landscape of the business broadband market has changed massively over the last five years, with many businesses now able to access fibre broadband. The speeds and quality of fibre broadband monumentally exceeds legacy copper networks; and most importantly fibre broadband for business is priced on a par with the cost of older technologies like copper or cable. “Despite this, a process of two-speed connectivity and digitisation is occurring amongst Irish business. SIRO’s research shows that while larger businesses are making the switch to fibre broadband, smaller businesses are lagging behind, with knock-on impacts on digital adaption. As a nation of SMEs, employing two-thirds of our workers, with 91% of our businesses employing less than 10 employees, high quality fibre connectivity is a critical building block of digital transformation, yet businesses missing the opportunity to secure their future”, noted Mr. Whelan. “Small businesses currently face a challenging environment, but reliable fibre connectivity can unlock tools which can hugely support their daily operations. This includes technologies to improve workplace productivity, reduce the impact of labour shortages, or to better manage and lower input costs. “Equally, with the switch off of copper broadband on the way, Government and industry need to do more to encourage Irish businesses not just to make the switch to fibre broadband, but to better understand how it can deliver tangible benefits to their bottom line,” concluded Mr. Whelan.

To read more of this research, click here. To see if SIRO is available to your business, 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"]

SIRO, Ireland's leading fibre broadband operator has today announced that Kerry and Munster broadband retailer,  Ivertec is to join its network of retail partners. With offices based in Kerry and Cork City, Ivertec is a telecoms solutions company operating an extensive network in the Munster area specialising in residential and business connectivity services. SIRO is a broadband network operator, designing, building, and maintaining a full fibre network across Irish towns and cities. SIRO is also a wholesaler reselling its fibre broadband network for residential and business users to retailers such as Ivertec. This new partnership is good news for businesses in Munster, with Ivertec set to enhance broadband accessibility for local  businesses, offering them access to SIRO's 100% fibre broadband infrastructure. With a strong reputation built over 25 years, Ivertec is now a leading telecoms partner serving a wide range of businesses particularly in the corporate, education and hospitality sectors. Through this collaboration with SIRO, Ivertec gains access to the Gigabit broadband network, powered by 100% Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP) technology, providing businesses in Munster with reliable and secure connectivity. The SIRO network is a benchmark for speed and reliability, offering businesses in Munster an unmatched connectivity experience. The alliance will leverage Ivertec's extensive experience in the Telecoms market and their local presence to bring SIRO's Gigabit broadband to even more businesses and homes. Gerard O Sullivan of IVERTEC said:

“Ivertec has firmly established itself as a reliable telecoms partner, particularly for SME clients. This new partnership with SIRO allows us to offer future proof Fibre connectivity to new and existing customers. We go the extra mile for clients by offering a range of services to enhance business operations. This includes dual WAN connectivity, Managed VOIP and Managed WiFi.” "We are excited to bring SIRO's Gigabit Broadband to our customers, empowering them with unparalleled internet speeds for their evolving digital needs."

SIRO Chief Commercial Officer , Ronan Whelan  noted:

"We are pleased to welcome Ivertec into the SIRO family as our retail partner. Their extensive coverage and commitment to providing high-quality broadband services aligns perfectly with SIRO's mission to connect Irish homes and businesses with world-class broadband infrastructure."

To see if your home is ready to 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"]

SIRO, a leading fibre network operator, has announced the appointment of Barry McWeeney as the company’s Head of New Developments. Barry McWeeney assumes his new role with immediate effect, where he will be responsible for leading SIRO’s rollout of its full fibre broadband network to new developments – homes and apartments - across the country. With a BEng in Civil Engineering from Atlantic Technological University Sligo, Barry has over 15 years' experience working in telecommunications across several roles including as a Project Manager with KTL, overseeing various network upgrade projects for major telecom providers, and with Vodafone/Netshare managing its upgrade to 4G capability with responsibility for site design, installation, and quality assurance. Barry joined SIRO in 2016 where he most recently held the role of Team Lead within its technology division. New Developments are a significant and growing area of importance for SIRO. The company works with Ireland’s leading developers, such as Glenveagh, Cairn Homes, Quintain amongst others, to ensure that their developments and new homes are fibre ready for their new occupants. McWeeney will lead a team focused on end-to-end seamless delivery from planning and design, to transmission, site activation and installation. With the number of new homes coming to market over recent years incrementally increasing and required to grow further, demand for fibre-to-the-home broadband services for these homes is now recognised as an essential service, no different to electricity or water.  Research commissioned by SIRO confirmed this. It found that high quality broadband was the most important consideration for those under 35, when thinking about a new home. Reflecting on his appointment, SIRO Head of New Developments Barry McWeeney noted:

"With a family background in construction, I understand the sector well and am excited to bring these insights into my new role with SIRO. I understand how important reliable and futureproofed fibre broadband now is to every homeowner when buying a new home. My focus will be to ensure that SIRO’s full fibre network reaches every new development in Ireland.”

SIRO CEO John Keaney stated,

"Barry is stepping into the role of Head of New Developments at an exciting time for SIRO. Recent years have seen SIRO become the operator of choice for many developers, and demand for our services is growing across Ireland. Barry’s extensive experience and proven track record make him the ideal leader to strengthen these partnerships and grow our network footprint in new developments."

A joint remote working initiative between SIRO, the fibre network operator, and Vodafone, Ireland’s leading broadband provider, known as the Gigabit Hub Initiative (GHI), has reached a new milestone by providing Gigabit broadband connectivity to 1,000 desks in hubs across regional Ireland, supporting more than 650 jobs since the programme was first established in 2016. The GHI works by providing best in class Gigabit connectivity for digital working hubs across Ireland. Under the Initiative, digital working hubs are connected, at no cost, to the SIRO full fibre network; provided with two years free Gigabit broadband; and receive both technical and marketing supports designed to provide best in class connectivity to remote working hubs and to help promote the hub to local users. Recognised as the international gold standard for broadband, the Fibre-to-the-Building connectivity is a major factor in helping to attract businesses and remote workers to the hubs across regional Ireland. This in turn creates a virtuous cycle by indirectly boosting investment and creating employment in the local economy. Since it first commenced eight years, with the groundbreaking Ludgate Hub in Skibbereen, 20 remote and digital working hubs have now participated in the Initiative. Collectively the 20 Hubs now host over 1,000 desks, used by a wider range of businesses from larger more established companies to newly formed start-ups. A wide range and type of companies are now using Gigabit Hubs such as CitySwift, an intelligent transport data platform or TriggerFish Animation based in Galway’s PorterShed and CREW Digital hubs respectively or FRS Recruitment with a regional office in The Cube Portlaoise. Hubs which have benefitted from the Initiative include: Dundalk Regional Development Centre at the Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT); The Mill, Drogheda’s first purpose built innovation hub for the accelerated creation of new enterprises in the South Louth, East Meath and Drogheda areas; The Ludgate Hub a digital initiative first of its kind in rural Ireland and an exemplar project recognised by the European Commission; THE CUBE, a  Low Carbon Centre of Excellence dedicated to support and assist a transition to a low carbon economy for County Laois; and the most recent addition to the initiative, CREW Digital, a new enterprise space for businesses in the creative digital enterprise sector. While access to reliable and futureproofed broadband is just one aspect of what the hubs have to offer workers and employers in the hub’s footprint, it is recognised as a fundamental aspect. The certainty of a reliable, trusted fibre connection can be a major selling point. Vodafone Business Managing Director, Sinéad Bryan said:-

"Since the start of the Gigabit Hubs Initiative we have welcomed the impact the hubs have had and the significant contribution they have made to local economies and the communities in which they operate. We have seen the initiative accelerate remote working and the adaption of hybrid working models meaning many more people can pursue their careers within the area they are from and can benefit from a better work life balance. We are looking forward to welcoming more hubs and seeing the impact they have as the network expands and the initiative continues to go from strength to strength’’.

Commenting on the Initiative SIRO CEO John Keaney noted:

“When this Initiative commenced back in 2016, the idea of either full or hybrid remote working was a very novel concept. Today, with more than 25% of Irish workers working in a hybrid way it has become mainstream. High quality, fast and reliable fibre broadband is the key enabler to this behaviour shift. “Digital hubs across Ireland are bringing hybrid working to a higher level. Focused not just on creating effective workspaces, but as enterprise centres for start-ups to grow and thrive, where companies can cross collaborate or by providing educational opportunities, they are having a huge effect on their wider communities. “SIRO is pleased to have contributed through this Initiative, in a small but impactful way, to the dynamic hub sector in Ireland, and we look forward to working with many more hubs in the years ahead,” added Mr. Keaney.

The application process for 2024 is now open and remote and digital working hubs are encouraged to apply. Details on the process can be found at https://siro.ie/about-us/gigabit-hubs/

On Safer Internet Day 2024, SIRO’s CTO, Suzanne Tracy's guide serves as a timely resource for parents to proactively educate and empower their children, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable online experience.  Recent data highlights that 95% of Irish children aged 8-12 own their own smart device. This research, conducted by the charity CyberSafeKids, also notes how 87% of children have their own social media account.  Using devices and tapping into the wealth of resources which access to online platforms can provide can be hugely positive for kids. Helping with their schoolwork, staying connected to friends, entertainment and recreational tools are all the positives that technology brings.  However, as much as we want children to be able to avail of the opportunities for learning and enjoyment that technology can deliver, parents, educators and society also have a responsibility to help them stay safe online.  Studies by SafeWise show that more than 58% of parents say their child’s internet behaviours are a cause of concern for them.  Naturally, parents have concerns. Rather than be an anxious but passive parent, a quick crash course in some basic and easy to implement tools, can be effective in keeping our kids safer online. 

Passwords 

Having a secure password is key for protecting your child’s information and accounts. Implementing a two-factor authentication, whereby users must first input their username and password, and subsequently enter a passcode they receive via text or email is just one of the ways you can create a barrier to hackers and threats.  Many of the commonly used social media platforms including Instagram and Facebook, now allow the option to create a two-factor authentication.  Another way of reducing the risk of someone gaining access to your account is by creating both a memorable and complex password.  Some things to consider when creating passwords would be to make sure you choose something with both uppercase and lowercase letters, containing both symbols and numbers too if possible. Ideally, passwords should also be changed frequently, and should be different across social media accounts. 

Managing access 

Setting some ground rules on internet use and informing them of which sites are suitable to use can help children be more actively aware of their online behaviours.  An approach you could also take would be to limit access to certain websites by using blockers. This way, they can be prevented from clicking onto any sites which might not be age appropriate or safe.  In the UK, a Pew Research Centre survey noted that 39% of parents report using parental controls for blocking, filtering, or monitoring their teen’s online activities.  Another way of limiting access is having an agreement on how long your child can use their smart device for a day or how long they can spend on a certain social network. Apple for instance has a setting which means you can set limits on the amount of time you are allowed to spend on certain apps in a day.  Data from the Pew Research Centre also found that just over half of the parents surveyed restrict the amount of time or number of times their child goes online in a day. 

Social Media 

Most kids and teens have at least one social media platform installed onto their smart device. UK stats show that 48% of kids (aged 4-18) use TikTok, followed by 41% using Facebook, and 28% using Snapchat.  Before your kids start using any social media platform, it is important to give them basic watchouts to keep them safe on these platforms such as: 

• Not to accept friend requests from strangers. 
• To disable precise location settings 
• To not share personal information online 
• To communicate to an adult any problems or issue they experience online 

While the idea of kids navigating social media and the internet might fill every parent with dread, sticking your head in the sand is not an option. This Safer Internet Day, let's collectively commit to educating our kids, arming them against potential risks, and implementing measures to ensure a safer online environment for both parents and children.  For more information on Safer Internet Day 2024 and online safety tips, and resources visit https://www.saferinternetday.org/home  To find out if SIRO’s 100% fibre broadband is available to your home, 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"]

SIRO, Ireland's leading provider of 100% fibre broadband, has announced the expansion of its network to Tramore. Construction works in the town to facilitate SIRO’s network build have already commenced and will continue during the first half of 2024. SIRO’s fibre network will be available to over 4,000 premises in the town upon completion of the build. The announcement was made as part of a presentation by senior SIRO representatives to the monthly meeting of Waterford City and County Council on Thursday. Tramore will join Waterford city and Dungarvan as SIRO-enabled full fibre broadband towns. SIRO first rolled out its network to Waterford city in 2019 with over 12,000 premises in the city which can now connect to its network. [caption id="attachment_9045" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] 11/01/2024 The Mayor of Waterford City & County, Cllr.Joe Conway pictured on Tramore Beach, Co.Waterford with from left, Liam Rafter, SIRO Site Agent, Denis Cambridge, SIRO Build Director, Amanda Glancy, SIRO Director, Corporate Affairs, Jack Doyle, Broadband Officer, Waterford City & County Council and Damien Murray, SIRO Head of Strategic Projects.Picture:Noel Browne[/caption] Similarly, its build in Dungarvan will complete early this year, with almost 3,200 premises fibre enabled, with the majority of Dungarvan premises already live on the SIRO network. The network expansion to Tramore, will see over 19,000 premises and over 52,000 County Waterford residents passed by the SIRO network. Areas in Tramore which will benefit from the rollout include: Moonvoy Valley, Glenroad, Mountfield, Strandhill, Somerville, Meadowbrook, Ard Haven, Main & St. Patrick St, Priest’s Rd, Westbrook, Newtown, Carrigealea. The first homes in Tramore will be able to order the new broadband services from April 2024, with the remainder coming on stream over the following months. The rollout of a full fibre broadband network in Tramore is part of SIRO’s ongoing network growth. SIRO is targeting more than 700,000 premises in towns and cities across Ireland by 2026. To date, almost 550,000 premises in 135 towns across the country can access the SIRO network. Overall, SIRO is investing more than €1 billion in delivering high speed, future proofed broadband across Ireland. [caption id="attachment_9046" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] 11/01/2024 The Mayor of Waterford City & County, Cllr.Joe Conway pictured on Tramore Beach, Co.Waterford with from left, Amanda Glancy, SIRO Director, Corporate Affairs, Denis Cambridge, SIRO Build Director and Jack Doyle, Broadband Officer, Waterford City & County Council. .Picture:Noel Browne[/caption] SIRO Chief Executive Officer, John Keaney, commented,

"SIRO's expansion in Tramore is part of our ongoing objective to provide accessible and future proofed fibre broadband services to communities across Ireland. “Reliable connectivity is now a critical infrastructure for all communities and towns, like Tramore. Having this service for your home or business fosters economic development, drives job creation and underpins thriving and sustainable communities", added Mr. Keaney.

Michael Walsh, Waterford City and County Council Chief Executive, stated:

“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. “Establishing a secure and universal digital connectivity is crucial for unlocking economic, social, and environmental potential. This encompasses facilitating increased remote work, creating job prospects, accessing new markets for businesses, enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of public services, and fostering more adaptable work environments. “Additionally, digital technologies can significantly contribute to the revitalisation of our towns and villages. Furthermore, they can play a vital role in decreasing energy and resource consumption and supporting the process of decarbonisation.”

To find out if SIRO is available to your home/business search your Eircode or register your interest here where you will be automatically notified when SIRO is available at your premise. [mailchimp_modal button-text="Register Your Interest" title="Sign Up Form" position="mid"]