Co Carlow security firm to create 50 new jobs

30 Apr 2010

Fifty new jobs are set to be created by Irish security firm Netwatch over the next 18 months, thanks to the opening of the company’s new corporate headquarters and command centre in Carlow.

The new HQ and command centre, which represents an investment of more than €5m by Netwatch, was opened today by the Taoiseach Brian Cowen.

The investment includes the establishment of a dedicated R&D centre, which is supported by Enterprise Ireland. Up to eight employees will focus on the development of new software applications and more intelligent transmission equipment and site hardware.

In total, 50 new jobs in operations and R&D will be created, bringing total employment at Netwatch to more than 120 people.

Netwatch investment aligned to smart economy plan

Speaking at the official opening, Cowen welcomed the decision of Netwatch to invest in R&D in the current economic climate and said the investment was “closely aligned to the Government’s agenda in relation to innovation”.

“Significant investments in R&D are critical if we are to foster innovation in Ireland. Netwatch is a dynamic and energetic company, driven by innovation and commercialisation and it is exactly the kind of company that we want in Ireland as we build our smart economy and strive to recover from our current economic difficulties,” he added.

Netwatch managing director David Walsh said the opening of the new centre represented a “very strong statement of intent by us as a company in the Carlow region”.

“Our first innovation was in exploiting an idea – creating a safer and better way of providing security – and in identifying the revolutionary systems which would allow us to bring such a technology to the Irish market.

“The new R&D centre in Carlow will allow us to continue to innovate with new applications and new technologies which will better protect our customers and their properties. This investment will position us for future growth not only in Ireland but in overseas markets and will afford us the opportunity to pursue larger and more complex contracts,” he added.

Advanced negotiations on London Olympics contract

Walsh also said Netwatch is in “advanced negotiations” with the London Olympics to provide protection for critical communications infrastructure at the 2012 Olympic Games.

“We have developed a unique wireless protection product for remote communication masts which is currently being trialled at several locations. Securing contracts such as these is what will ultimately make Ireland’s vision of being an innovation-led economy a reality.”

Established in 2003 by Walsh and Niall Kelly, director of technology, Netwatch currently employs 70 staff. It combines specialist video-transmission technologies with satellite communications to provide immediate and cost-effective protection solutions for clients.

The Netwatch system uses advanced protection technologies including GPS tracking, audio visual detection, personal protector equipment and wireless perimeter security cordons to protect individuals and premises. 

Article courtesy of Businessandleadership.com

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