Google opens new centre in Clondalkin

THE opening by Google of a brand new

?¬75 million data centre in Clondalkin on Friday morning has been welcomed,

Construction of the state-of-the-art centre at Profile Park took more than 1,000 people working for around 90 building and engineering companies a year to complete.

The centre will provide employment for 30 people, with roles ranging from computer technicians, electrical and mechanical engineers to catering and security staff.

The data centre will also host computers to run cloud-computing services, such as the Google search engine, Gmail and Google Maps.

According to Google, it will rank as one of the most energy-efficient data centres in the world due to it taking advantage of Ireland’s climate.

Google’s global data centre operations director Dan Costello explained that a unique air-cooling system removes the need for energy-intensive air-conditioning units.

After officially opening the new data centre, Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Richard Bruton, spoke about how Ireland’s technological infrastructure is improving.

He said cloud computing was one area where Ireland’s climate gives it an advantage.

Meanwhile, Google Ireland’s head John Herlihy said the company was expanding its footprint in Ireland and now employs 2,500 people in Dublin, a figure up from around 2,000 a year ago.

Deputy Robert Dowds (Lab) wished Google the best of luck.

“I am delighted that the new data centre in Profile Park, Clondalkin is now open and I wish Google the very best with their venture,

? he said.

“It is fantastic that such a facility has been built by Google in Clondalkin and I think it is a great endorsement of the area’s suitability for foreign direct investment, particularly in high tech sectors.

?