SIRO Announces Head Of New Developments

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/

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"]

Audrey O’Sullivan is a practising solicitor and acts as General Counsel, to SIRO DAC.  As a member of the SIRO leadership team, working in a fast paced ever changing business environment, the art of asking good questions is paramount.  This practice keeps business moving, while ensuring the parameters of tolerable commercial risk are appreciated.  It speaks to good risk management.  SIRO is a wholesale provider of world class, super-fast, high-quality broadband, deploying future proofed fibre technology across Ireland.   Audrey is completing an MSc in Leadership Development with Smurfit Executive Development and is an accredited EMCC Business and Executive Coach practitioner.

Thought leadership:

I have been reading an article recently, by Chris Argyris ‘Teaching Smart People How to Learn’.  The author writes about the value of double-loop thinking, for business.   And he explains how high performing individuals can struggle with double loop reflexive learning (how our thoughts and feelings can influence what we do). (Argyris being the former American business theorist and Professor Emeritus of Harvard Business School).

Single Loop learning:

Single-loop thinking and learning is associated with problem solving. A process of looking outwards.  It is something we do every day.  Something mechanical.  Perfunctory.  By way of analogy, this is akin to a thermostat that automatically switches on air conditioning when the heat in a room gets above 30 degrees. The process is automatic. Non reflective.

Double Loop learning:

By contrast, Double loop thinking and learning involves standing back.  This approach questions and explores whether the level at which the air conditioning comes on (at 30 degrees) is the right level (in the present), or whether or not some other trigger might be more efficient.  Double loop learning involves a questioning of base assumptions.  It requires a process of looking inwards. This involves emotional intelligence.  Genuine learning occurs with this additional step of questioning, exploration, and testing.  This step involves the ability of individuals or teams to think and reflect and it involves an open mindset.  It involves an ability to receive challenge, to evaluate and update our thinking,  or hypotheses and recommendations we make, vital for key business go-no-go decisions. Curiously, Argyris explains that high performing individuals, knowledge workers of today, including management consultants, financiers, accountants, lawyers, engineers, and others often resist or defend against a double-loop learning spotlight being placed on them and their reasoning.  As a practising lawyer (and executive coach) I am curious about this.   As an advocate it’s normal to ask questions of others and of myself to achieve good outcomes.  Significantly, this act of questioning, is not a form of mistrust or an invasion of privacy of the other (Argyris) although for experts in their field, it might feel like that.  In fact, healthy genuine challenges, debate, and reflection are qualities needed to promote new ideas, innovation, creativity.   The art of good questioning affords a valuable learning opportunity for all involved.

Defensive reasoning:

Argyris, recognised, that the testing of assumptions of others, however, can produce a form of defensive reasoning in the minds of high performing individuals, which is not useful for a company.  In business transactions this is due, he claims: to a desire to be in control; or to maximise winning and minimise losing; or the belief that negative feelings should be suppressed; or  a desire to appear extremely rational.  Defensive reasoning is triggered by challenges to our views which touch upon our beliefs.  We wish to avoid any threat to our identities, or a view of ourselves as being less than competent experts.  This is in effect ‘closed loop’ reasoning as in reality, we all make mistakes.  However, ‘to cling to a wrong idea for the sake of “credibility” is the height of self-orientation because it is all about us and not at all about the facts’ writes David Maister, in his book ‘The Trusted Advisor’. Double-loop learning is a reflexive process which looks at the rules and reasoning we use, which influences our pattern of behaving.

The higher you go Double loop learning provides us with an effective leadership tool. 

Productive reasoning on the other hand, demonstrates a willingness to examine one’s own role in any difficulties in a project.  That I need to be open to criticism and willing to publicly have my assumptions tested against the further evidence and experience of others.  As a ground rule, I have relevant information and others also have relevant information and each of us may see things the other does not.  This can require a single loop problem solving approach to adapt as double-loop learning recognises that how a problem is defined and solved can be part of the solution.   In summary, Double-Loop learning is a useful leadership skill to i) reflect on assumptions more openly and ii) test the validity of hypotheses rather than cling to ideas.  This can be the difference maker between being great and near great, between the gold and settling for bronze, as Marshall Goldsmith suggests.  The higher you go Double loop learning provides us with an effective leadership tool.  And, ‘when senior managers are trained in new productive reasoning skills, they can have a big [positive] impact on the performance of the entire organisation (Argyris).

This week, we are happy to announce that our services are now available to 50,000 homes and businesses in Dublin City, and to 100,000 premises overall across the wider Dublin area. The €100 million rollout is part of a strategy to make services powered by SIRO available to areas underserved by fibre to the home broadband. The expansion in the capital follows close collaboration with Dublin City Council’s Telecoms Unit and with the broadband officers in the other three Dublin local authorities to advance its Dublin network roll-out. Within Dublin City Council’s borders this includes ‘new’ SIRO areas such as Dublin’s Docklands, East Wall, Walkinstown, Kimmage and Crumlin. Our network is already well established in other parts of the city such as Fairview, Raheny, Finglas, Artane or Coolock. This is in addition to our expanded network footprint across the four Dublin local authority areas, which now encompasses more than 30 suburban towns from Balbriggan in Fingal as far south as Shankill in Dun Laoghaire Rathdown. SIRO plans to continue to build across Dublin city and county where other commercial opportunities exist. Lord Mayor of Dublin, Daithí de Róiste noted:

“This is a really positive investment for Dublin, and I am delighted that the City Council have been able to support SIRO in the delivery of this essential digital infrastructure particularly in areas such as East Wall, Docklands. Kimmage and Crumlin. We need to ensure that all of our communities have access to high quality broadband services and are not left behind as the adoption of new technologies and digital services continue to accelerate.”

SIRO John Keaney Chief Executive Officer, noted:

"The presumption that our cities already enjoy universal full fibre connectivity can be inaccurate. Poor broadband can exist in areas of our cities and its suburbs, just as much as it can be found in more remote areas. “Yet, future-proofed and reliable fibre connectivity is key to the economic life of our capital city and in all the communities which make up its constituent parts. “SIRO is rolling out our network across Dublin, city and county, because a real need exists to address existing connectivity blackspots. By now reaching areas underserved by fibre to the home broadband, such as the Docklands, East Wall or Crumlin and Walkinstown, we are striving to ensure these areas have the broadband infrastructure essential for the future wider social and economic development of the city,” added Mr. Keaney.

Smart City Program Manager at Dublin City Council, Jamie Cudden stated:

“Investments like this from SIRO support our ambition to future-proof Dublin ensuring that we can take advantage of new and emerging technology trends. When we established our Telecoms Unit in 2022, we committed to work with the telecoms sector to help streamline and accelerate network rollout through better co-ordination and collaboration. The real winners here are communities across Dublin who will have access to world class digital infrastructure and choice of providers.”

SIRO is a joint venture between ESB and Vodafone, formed in 2015, to roll out a new full fibre broadband network across Ireland. To date, SIRO has rolled out network to every county in Ireland with its broadband network in over 135 towns and cities and available to almost 550,000 homes and businesses nationwide. The company is on track to reach 700,000 premises by 2026. To check if your home or business is SIRO enabled, search your 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"]

The holiday season is a time for spreading joy, sharing gifts, and embracing the spirit of giving. As we are all on the lookout for the ideal gifts, it's important to recognise the influence of our decisions and the invaluable support we can extend to local businesses. In Ireland, the sentiment to buy local is strong, with 62% of shoppers keen on purchasing gifts from Irish businesses. Furthermore, nearly seven in 10 individuals are committed to sourcing Irish food for their festive feasts. The variety of offerings from Irish artisans and entrepreneurs is significant. From crafted jewellery and traditional knitwear to delectable artisanal foods and unique handcrafted goods, the diversity is impressive and diverse. These businesses are often steeped in passion, tradition, and innovation, reflecting the vibrant culture of Ireland. Choosing to support Irish businesses contributes not just to the economy but also to the preservation of local artistry, sustainability, and the livelihoods of fellow community members. Here's why it's worth considering and how you can make a difference this festive season. Unveiling Unique Treasures Irish businesses often specialise in creating unique, one-of-a-kind products. Each piece - be it a hand-knit Aran sweater, delicately designed Celtic jewellery, or artisanal chocolates made from family recipes – has an individuality that sets them apart from mass-produced items. They carry stories, histories, and demonstrate the dedication and talent of local creators. Nurturing Local Economy Supporting local businesses is akin to investing in the local community. 1,093,747 people were employed in SMEs in 2020, which was over two-thirds of the total Irish workforce. Many of whom are currently employed in businesses working in the craft, food or hospitality sectors. When you purchase from an Irish business, you directly contribute to the livelihoods of your neighbours, friends, and families. This sustains local employment, boosts economic growth, and helps in the preservation of cultural heritage and traditions. Fostering Sustainability Many Irish businesses take pride in their sustainable practices. Whether it's sourcing materials locally, using eco-friendly packaging, or implementing ethical production methods, these businesses often prioritise sustainability. By supporting them, you indirectly contribute to a more environmentally conscious economy, whilst avoiding the negative aspects related to products transported into Ireland from far flung destinations. How to Support Irish Businesses Online In an increasingly digital world, online shopping presents a vast landscape of options. Here are some ways to prioritise Irish businesses in your holiday shopping:

1. Explore Irish Marketplaces: Platforms like "Guaranteed Irish Gifts” and "Irish Design Shop" are dedicated to promoting Irish products. They serve as hubs for a variety of locally crafted goods, making it easier to find unique gifts. SIRO is a proud member of the Guaranteed Irish network of businesses based in Ireland that support sustainable jobs, and make positive contributions to local communities.
2. Social Media and Direct Websites: Many Irish businesses showcase their products on social media platforms or have their dedicated websites. Follow and engage with these businesses directly to stay updated on their offerings and promotions.
3. Local Business Directories: Utilise local business directories to find Irish shops, boutiques, and craftspeople. These directories offer comprehensive lists of businesses within specific regions, making it easier to discover hidden gems in your vicinity.
4. Gift Irish Experiences: Consider gifting experiences from local businesses, such as cooking classes, brewery tours, or vouchers for local restaurants. These unique experiences contribute to the local economy and create lasting memories.

By supporting Irish businesses, we can enhance this joy, making a significant impact on our local communities and preserving Ireland's rich cultural heritage. Let's make a difference and celebrate the season by spreading the love for local businesses. If you are buying your Christmas gifts online, make sure you enjoy a seamless shopping experience with SIRO 100% fibre broadband. To see if SIRO is available to you, 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"]

The EPA says that Ireland is projected to fall well short of climate targets. Ireland will reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions 29% by 2030, compared to a target of 51%. Add to this that all industries are on track to exceed their emissions ceilings (the amount of emissions a sector can emit under current GHG budgets). So, you might be asking is it even possible to limit global temperature rise to 1.5° Celsius? The International Energy Agency believes it’s still possible. However, dramatic, and immediate action is needed if we are to stand a chance. We need governments, civil society, businesses, and others working in partnership to deliver on this.

SIRO’s Science Based Target

SIRO recognises this urgent call to action and has taken proactive steps on the crucial journey towards decarbonisation of our network. In 2022, SIRO achieved a verified Science Based Target (SBT), initiating efforts to significantly decrease GHG emissions from our operations. SIRO commits to reduce absolute scope 1 (electricity) and scope 2 (fuel) GHG emissions 42% by 2030 from a 2019 base year, and to measure and reduce its scope 3 (value chain) emissions. SIRO’s SBT is aligned with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5° Celsius. It provides an evidence-backed goal for SIRO and a realistic timeline for achieving emissions reduction.

Initiatives that are decarbonising SIRO’s network

Between 2019 and 2022, SIRO’s absolute direct emissions have decreased by 23%. The majority of this is attributed to a decrease in diesel consumption resulting from our expanding electric vehicle (EV) fleet. Emissions from diesel decreased by 48%, while SIRO’s EV’s increased to 60% of the fleet. By the end of 2023, it is expected that we will reduce our emissions from purchased electricity by over 70% from 2022 numbers. This will reduce SIRO’s direct emissions by approximately 340 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (or about 187 flights from London to Los Angeles). These savings are a result of swapping to 100% renewable energy, which will fully decarbonise SIRO’s network from May 2023 under the GHG Protocol’s market-based method. For 2024 and beyond, SIRO is exploring options such as entering a Power Purchasing Agreement that would help to support an increase of renewable energy sources in Ireland. This year, SIRO’s fleet also reached 80% EV’s, a 20% increase on 2022. This means we can expect further emissions savings from diesel from our ongoing fleet electrification. With these combined initiatives, SIRO expects to achieve our SBT of reducing our direct emissions by 42%, seven years ahead of schedule.

The importance of transparency and reporting

Reporting on non-financial information is essential for building trust and is an extension of our commitment to transparency. SIRO publicly reports our GHG footprint annually in our Sustainability Report. To ensure the accuracy of our annual report, SIRO undertook third-party verification of our GHG emissions. Having successfully achieved limited assurance against ISO – 14064-3:2019, SIRO can objectively track progress against our SBT. SIRO has also begun reporting under the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) as of 2023. The CDP helps companies measure, manage, and disclose their GHG emissions, and offers a scored metric of internal management of climate-related issues. It is the only organisation that gathers corporate GHG data and provides it to the marketplace, increasing transparency, and offering a system through which companies can gauge how they perform against their peers.

Collaboration and partnerships

Collaboration is key for high impact sustainable leadership. SIRO’s partnership with the Science Based Targets Initiative is the key driver for all emissions reduction programmes. Further, our partnership with Clearstream Solutions to verify our direct GHG emissions ensures that we can objectively track our performance against our SBT. Beyond this, we partner with many organisations to ensure our continued progress against our goals.

Looking beyond our direct emissions

Scope 3 emissions include those generated in the value chain such as through purchased goods and services, waste, or transportation and distribution. They typically account for three-quarters of a company’s emissions. In 2023, SIRO undertook our first scope 3 inventory and found that value chain emissions account for over 95% of our overall GHG footprint. Having identified priority areas for emissions reduction in our value chain, we can develop initiatives to target these areas. For example, waste generated in our operations accounts for 6.8% of our overall GHG emissions and is our third largest scope 3 category. SIRO has reduced general waste to landfill by 90% and is now working with local governments and suppliers to target backfill waste. We are doing this by researching novel options for in situ reuse to avoid inert material ending up in landfill unnecessarily.

SIRO’s GHG emissions reduction journey continues

Immediate climate action is required if we are to limit temperature rise to 1.5° Celsius. SIRO has made significant progress against our Science Based Target, reducing emissions from diesel by 48% by the end of 2022, and fully decarbonising the network through the uptake of renewable energy in 2023. Through our collaboration with many organisations to support our decarbonisation, SIRO is on track to achieve our Science Based Target seven years ahead of schedule. Our attention now turns to our value chain emissions where we have an opportunity for even greater reductions. You can follow along on SIRO’s GHG emissions reduction journey here. Read more on our sustainability journey here.

SIRO, a leading broadband operator, has today announced that it is expanding its full fibre broadband network to Celbridge and Leixlip. Build is now underway in both towns, with the network expected to go live, on a rolling basis, at the end of this year and into 2024. With this latest expansion in County Kildare, SIRO’s network will now be available in 13 towns across the county. These towns include Athy, Clane, Johnstown, Kilcock, Kildare town, Maynooth, Monasterevin, Naas, Newbridge, Prosperous, Sallins, and now Celbridge and Leixlip. The announcement was made as part of a presentation by senior SIRO representatives to the monthly meeting of Kildare County Council this week. In Celbridge, SIRO’s rollout is targeting a total of 2,200 premises, with the majority (2,000 premises) of these now built and already able to connect to SIRO’s network and the remainder joining the network in 2024. SIRO’s network in Leixlip is expected to go live the first half of 2024. SIRO has been rolling out its network across Ireland and County Kildare since 2016. Over that period SIRO's total investment in County Kildare has reached €40 million, with 40,000 premises or 110,000 people who can now access its network. The roll-out of a full fibre broadband network in Celbridge and Leixlip 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, over 540,000 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. Commenting on the announcement, SIRO Chief Executive Officer, John Keaney, said:

"Today SIRO is announcing the expansion of our broadband services to Celbridge and Leixlip – the 12th and 13th towns in the county to have access to our full fibre broadband network. “SIRO’s network now has a significant footprint in the county. Demand for SIRO’s network across Kildare, provided through our retail partners such as Virgin Media, Vodafone and Sky, has been consistently strong, and we expect to see a similar demand in our newest Kildare towns. “Since our foundation, SIRO has been committed to connecting communities with high-speed, high-quality, and dependable broadband. Our track record of delivery in Kildare speaks to our ongoing commitment to the county. “Access to reliable and future proofed connectivity is essential for all communities to live more sustainably and in ways that meet their needs, but also for businesses and enterprise to thrive across Kildare”, added Mr. Keaney.

To find out if SIRO is available at your home, search your 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"]

SIRO, a leading Irish broadband network provider, has won a major award at this year’s European Broadband Awards 2023. The Awards which are organised by the European Commission recognise outstanding broadband deployment projects in Europe and highlight successful infrastructures. The Awards took place on 21 November last at a special prize giving ceremony in Brussels. The Awards celebrate Member State projects that are playing a key role in achieving digital connectivity in Europe. Multiple broadband projects from across Europe’s 27 Member States entered this year’s Awards, with a smaller number subsequently shortlisted for the competition. These projects spanned a diverse range in terms of geographic location, size and technology, with only five projects selected as winners at the Awards. The final five projects included SIRO’s full fibre broadband roll-out which was selected as the winner under the category of "Innovative Models of Financing, Business, and Investment." The jury noted that SIRO has adopted a successful wholesale-only model which though still not common in Europe, was “innovative” and “pragmatic” in pushing forward the objectives of the EU’s Digital Decade. This includes Gigabit connectivity for all European citizens no later than 2030. SIRO’s operational model means it builds and operates its full fibre broadband network and then wholesales this network to a range of broadband retailers such as Virgin Media, Vodafone and Sky, amongst others, who then resell broadband services to end user homes and businesses. Established in 2015 as a joint venture between electricity operator, ESB, and global telecoms group Vodafone, SIRO is rolling out a full fibre broadband across Ireland. The company’s network is now available in over 540,000 premises in all Irish cities and 135 towns. SIRO is on track to provide access to its network to over 700,000 premises by 2026. SIRO CFO Michelle Mullally, accepting the European Broadband Award on behalf of SIRO noted:

“SIRO is a unique project in Irish and in European terms. A joint venture between a State electricity company and a global telecoms entity; using an existing electricity network supporting circular economy principles; and, with a distinct funding model which blends Irish and international lenders, largest amongst them the European Investment Bank”. “SIRO’s objective has always been to bridge digital divides across Ireland – regional and urban – and provide communities with access to future proofed and reliable broadband, on a par with the most advanced economies in the world. “It’s very special to have SIRO and Ireland recognised by the European Commission and our broadband peers across Europe for the work we are doing to achieve that objective,” added. Ms. Mullally.

For more information about SIRO and our services, take a read here.

SIRO and Vodafone have today announced a connectivity partnership with Galway’s CREW, Creative Enterprise, and Innovation Hub, a new shared and own-door enterprise space for businesses in the creative digital enterprise sector that is scheduled to open in early 2024. CREW will join Vodafone-SIRO’s GigaBitHub Initiative, which provides world class Gigabit full fibre broadband connectivity to digital hubs across Ireland. The CREW (Creative Enterprise West) Enterprise Hub will support enterprises in the CREA-Tech sector, defined as where creativity meets technology. The sector includes digital design, film and TV production, virtual production, animation, gaming, content development and immersive technologies. It is estimated that there are already 3,000 businesses working in this sector in the West of Ireland. Seizing the opportunity to grow the sector and jobs within it further is a key focus for government. The CREW Creative Enterprise Hub will provide individual office spaces, co-working spaces and hot desks for 160 people working within the CreaTech sector; offer incubation and accelerator programmes; and offer wider outreach services beyond the Hub across the Atlantic region. CREW have already confirmed several high-profile clients who will base themselves at the Creative Enterprise Hub, Ireland’s first Hub dedicated to this sector, these include Screen Ireland, the national development agency for the Irish film, television and animation industry, Ardán, which supports individuals within the film, TV, games and animation industries and global animation company, Triggerfish. [caption id="attachment_8799" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] SIRO and Vodafone announce connectivity partnership (as part of their Gigabit Hub Initiative), with Galway’s latest innovation hub – Creative Enterprise West (CREW). The Hub is set to open in early 2024 and is focused on supporting businesses in creative arts[/caption] There are a number of offices and desks available for startup companies, SME’s and individuals wishing to base themselves at CREW. CREW “Creative Enterprise West” is a collaborative initiative led by Atlantic Technological University’s School of Design and Creative Arts (ATU Galway City, Wellpark Road), the Western Development Commission (WDC) and Ardán. Funding for the hub was received from Enterprise Ireland (EI) through the Regional Enterprise Development Fund. The Hub, which is expected to open early in 2024, is a new purpose-built facility located on the Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Galway City (Wellpark Rd) campus, just one mile from Galway city centre. Vodafone-SIRO’s GigaBitHub Initiative is centred on providing reliable, resilient and future proofed connectivity to digital hubs across Ireland. It empowers hubs by providing them with high-speed, high-quality full fibre broadband. The GigaBitHub Initiative commenced in 2016 with the aim of enabling remote working and digital hubs with broadband connectivity, allowing both the hub and their users to run and grow their businesses seamlessly. Since then, the Initiative has partnered with 21 hubs in every corner of Ireland, from Ludgate Hub in Skibbereen to The Base in Stranolar in Donegal. CREW will be the third Galway hub to join the Initiative, with PorterShed in Galway City and Comworks in Loughrea already members. Commenting on the Vodafone-SIRO connectivity partnership CREW CEO, Niamh Costello, said: 

“CREW’s Creative Enterprise and Innovation Hub is set to be a game-changer for the CREA-Tech sector in Galway and the West. With world-class connectivity provided by SIRO and Vodafone, our members will have the tools they need to drive innovation, collaboration, and growth in this fast-growing industry. “We look forward to working with SIRO and Vodafone to elevate Ireland’s Creative Industries sector as a global frontrunner. This collaboration empowers our members with the essential connectivity resources and networks to thrive on a world stage.”

Vodafone Ireland Network Director, Sheila Kavanagh, stated:

“Since our Gigabit Hubs initiative started in 2017, we have welcomed its impact as the hubs have made significant contributions to the local economies and communities in which they operate. “Our latest connectivity partnership with Galway’s CREW Innovation Hub, will further build on the opportunities available to the people of Galway, ensuring that they can pursue their CREA-Tech careers within the area they are from and can benefit from a better work life balance.”

SIRO CEO, John Keaney, said:

“Galway has always been synonymous with both the creative arts and a strong tech sector, so it is really fitting that the city will now have a dedicated creative enterprise hub to further develop and grow this sector. “The CREW Hub will help elevate the West’s creative industries sector empowering individual and businesses to unlock the opportunities enabled by digital technologies. This includes developing new creative technologies, collaborating remotely with other enterprises and reaching wider global audiences. The SIRO-Vodafone partnership we are announcing today will provide the connectivity foundation which makes these ambitions possible,” added Mr. Keaney.

For more on CREW, visit: www.CrewDigital.ie   SIRO is currently accepting applications for GigaBitHub applications within our network footprint. For more information, please visit https://siro.ie/about-us/gigabit-hubs/