Carlow security company announces US expansion

A Carlow-based security company is to create 50 new jobs over the next 18 months following its expansion into North America.

Protection services company Netwatch has just opened its US headquarters in Boston and will be investing over €3m in the expansion.

Thirty jobs will be created between its Boston and Carlow operations by the end of 2012, bringing its total employment to over 120 people, the company said.

Former Boston Chief of Police Kathleen O’Toole has joined the Netwatch Board and is helping the company’s drive into the US market.

"Harnessing modern technologies, Netwatch has changed the way security and protection services are provided to private individuals and to companies," Taoiseach Enda Kenny said at a reception marking the opening of the company's Boston operations.

"It is now bringing this game changing technology to North America with its establishment in Boston."

The reception was also attended by the Irish Ambassador to the United States, Michael Collins and the Mayor of Boston, Thomas M. Menino as well as senior representatives of the business community in Boston.

Netwatch provides real time remote security monitoring to businesses and private residences in Ireland and internationally. All monitoring of the US sites will be undertaken by intervention specialists at Netwatch’s Irish headquarters in Carlow.