2013 VODAFONE COMEDY FESTIVAL LINE-UP ANNOUNCED

Dublin, 13th June 2013 Vodafone Ireland and Aiken Promotions have announced a stellar line-up for this year’s Vodafone Comedy Festival, which takes place in the beautiful surroundings of Dublin’s Iveagh Gardens from Thursday 25th – Sunday 28th July 2013. John Bishop, who sold out 38,000 tickets in Dublin last year, and Bafta award winner Lee Mack feature in the line-up which includes some of the best international comedians on the scene and a host of home grown talent.

Tickets for the festival go on sale this Monday 17th June at 9am and a record turnout of 20,000 people is expected. Performances will be spread across four specially created indoor theatres set amidst the unique features of the stunning Iveagh Gardens. Visitors will also be able to relax and enjoy street performances and live music across the grounds as well as gourmet food and drinks.

This year’s festival features the best line-up of international and national talent. In addition to John Bishop and Lee Mack, the line-up includes German superstar Michael Mittermeier and American acts such as beat-boxing genius Reggie Watts, Eugene Mirman, Michael Che& Reginald D Hunter. The Stars of Whose Line of it Anyway return with original member Greg Proops while Luisa Omeilan makes her Irish debut with her joyous 5 star show ‘What Would Beyonce Do!?’

Not to be outdone, the Irish line-up includes Tommy Tiernan, Dylan Moran, Maeve Higgins, PJ Gallagher, Jason Byrne, Fred Cooke, Bernard O’Shea, David O’Doherty, Ardal O’Hanlon, Eleanor Tiernan, Neil Delamere together with some of the best new talent including the newly crowned RTE 2 New Comedy Award winner, Sean Nolan.

Speaking at the today’s announcement, Robert Hyland, Sponsorship Manager, Vodafone Ireland, said “This is our third year sponsoring the Vodafone Comedy Festival and we’re thrilled to be involved again with this much loved event. It’s widely acknowledged as one of Europe’s leading festivals and the great thing is its right here on our doorstep in one of the most beautiful locations this city has to offer."

“This year Festival-goers and comedy fans will also be able to enjoy exclusive content plus the latest news, inside reviews and buzz around the festival and great giveaways on ‘Vodafone Centre Stage’. The online platform is part of Vodafone’s new sponsorship programme which sees a major expansion of our involvement in Ireland’s leading music, comedy and entertainment festivals across the country,” he added.

Festival Director, Bren Berry of Aiken Promotions said “We always aim to provide a diverse line up of comedy talent from all over the world and this is our best yet. It’s a real mix of well-known comedy stars, oddballs and newcomers. The comedians love coming here and there’s a real community atmosphere amongst the performers over the four days.

“For the newcomers the Vodafone Comedy Festival is a very important platform to introduce them to Irish audiences. There’s nothing like stumbling upon a brand new talent or watching a completely unknown performer win over an audience. It’s exciting to see that process at play.

“We’ve an amazing line-up that represents so many different styles of comedy performance and we can’t wait for people to see them in action. And the added bonus for festival goers is the location. The Iveagh Gardens are a hidden gem in the heart of Dublin city and a stunning location for the Vodafone Comedy Festival,” he said.

For full details of the Vodafone Comedy Festival Line-up and programme information visit www.vodafonecomedy.com

Pre-sale tickets go on sale on Friday 14th June at 9am and are available through the Vodafone Comedy Festival Facebook page www.facebook.com/vodafonecomedyfestival

Tickets go on general sale this Monday 17th June @ 9am on www.ticketmaster.ie . Tickets are sold on a show-by-show basis and the festival is a strictly over 18s event.

-ENDS-

Further information:
Bren Berry, Aiken Promotions 086 288 5332 bren@aikenpromotions.com
Sorcha O’Flanagan, Sorcha O’Flanagan PR 086 0217556 sorcha@sorchaoflanaganpr.com
Cara Twohig, Vodafone 087 6887316 cara.twohig@vodafone.com
Norman Pratt, Weber Shandwick 086 1518921 npratt@webershandwick.com

About Vodafone
Vodafone is Ireland’s leading total communications provider with 2.41 million customers across mobile, fixed line and DSL. At 31 March 2013 Vodafone Ireland’s mobile telecoms base was 2.2 million. Vodafone is one of the world's largest mobile communications companies by revenue with approximately 403 million customers in its controlled and jointly controlled markets as of 31 March 2013. Vodafone currently has equity interests in over 30 countries across five continents and more than 50 partner networks worldwide. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com.

List of Comedians

• Tommy Tiernan
• John Bishop
• Dylan Moran
• Lee Mack
• Jason Byrne
• Reg D Hunter
• Neil Delamere
• Jason Manford
• David O’Doherty
• Reggie Watts
• Barry Murphy
• Paul Foot
• Maeve Higgins
• Eugene Mirman
• Bernard O’Shea
• PJ Gallagher
• Ardal O’Hanlon
• David McSavage
• Fred Cooke
• Michael Mittermeier
• Mark Watson
• Jarlath Regan
• Seann Walsh
• Karl Spain
• Andi Osho
• Colin Murphy
• Terry Alderton
• Foil, Arms & Hog
• Michael Che
• Eleanor Tiernan
• Greg Proops
• The Nualas
• Eric Lalor
• Aidan Bishop
• Daniel Sloss
• And Many More.......

A new smartphone offering high-end performance at an affordable price

7th June 2013: Vodafone Ireland today announced the launch of the Smart 3, a new smartphone that delivers an unprecedented level of performance, connectivity and functionality at a widely affordable price.

The Vodafone Smart 3 offers value-focused customers a high-specification device with the processing power and memory capabilities typically associated with high-end smartphones, including:

• a highly responsive WVGA 4 inch capacitive touchscreen;
• 1Ghz processor, supported by 512Mb of RAM;
• high-speed 3G HSUPA and Wi-Fi connectivity;
• Jelly Bean 4.1 Android operating system;
• 5 megapixel camera with white LED flash;
• the latest Assisted GPS technology for accurate mapping and navigation; and
• The option to personalise their smartphone with graphic sheets.

Vodafone Ireland Pay as You Go customers who purchase a new smartphone before July 31st will also receive one month’s free usage, enabling them to get the most of their new smartphone and Ireland’s best network, worry free.

Full PAYG Summer Campaign offer:

• 1GB of free internet,
• Free Vodafone calls and texts,
• €€20 credit to use however they like.

The Smart III is available on Vodafone, Ireland’s fast and reliable network, priced at just €99 on Vodafone Pay as You Go

-ENDS-

Further information:
Norman Pratt/ Orla Molloy, Weber Shandwick, 01 676 0168 or 086 151 8921 / 087 770 5108
Cara Twohig /Bryan O’Hanlon, Vodafone Ireland, 087 688 7316/ 085 714 1788

About Vodafone
Vodafone is Ireland’s leading total communications provider with 2.41 million customers across mobile, fixed line and DSL. At 31 March 2013 Vodafone Ireland’s mobile telecoms base was 2.2 million.
Vodafone is one of the world's largest mobile communications companies by revenue with approximately 403 million customers in its controlled and jointly controlled markets as of 31 March 2013. Vodafone currently has equity interests in over 30 countries across five continents and more than 50 partner networks worldwide. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com.

Waterford City gets high-speed mobile data everywhere there’s voice coverage

31st May 2013: Vodafone Ireland has switched on even better mobile coverage in Waterford City. Services across the city have been enhanced to bring mobile data services to areas where previously only mobile calls could be made. These significant improvements will allow customers, on Ireland’s leading mobile network, to do more with their smartphone or tablet, whenever and wherever they want, right across Waterford City.

Over 50,000 people will experience the benefits of these improvements, specifically in: Waterford City Centre, Grange, Grantstown, Ballytruckle, Ballynakill, Kilbarry, Ballybeg, Skibbereen (in Waterford), Carrickphierish, Logloss, Belmount, Abbeylands, Christendom and Rathculliheen.

In these areas, social media enthusiasts, on-the-go business people or families who want to keep in touch with loved ones abroad can access email, browse the web and share files, photos and other content online. In addition, customers will also be able to experience High Definition Voice1 in more places around the city, a service only available on the Vodafone network that delivers greater phone voice quality, minimises background noise and allows crystal clear conversations.

“Smart devices have become a vital part of people’s lives so we have been working hard to improve our network and coverage to ensure our customers can do more and be better connected on Ireland's leading network2. This nationwide upgrade will particularly benefit rural Ireland and its business community as it is bringing data services to a wider catchment. For example, a B&B that previously could only make voice calls and had no fixed broadband can now stay comfortably connected with mobile broadband. We‘re starting in Waterford City, and shortly we will be upgrading the wider South East,” said, Sheila Kavanagh, Head of Mobile Networks at Vodafone Ireland.

Vodafone Ireland has invested a billion euro in Ireland to date and its nationwide network upgrade has been enabled by Vodafone’s acquisition of the largest allocation of spectrum in November 2012. As a result, this is the first step in a nationwide network upgrade programme to bring data services to everywhere there is currently a mobile voice service.

A new network hub has been created here, where customers can view the level of coverage in their area.

Ends

Note to editors:

1. Vodafone is the first mobile network in Ireland to introduce HD Voice and there are no additional charges for Vodafone customers who possess a HD voice – capable device.
   It delivers:
   
   • Easier to make and receive calls in noisy environments as background noise is reduced
   • Improved call clarity means recited numbers and letters are easier to hear
   • Experience is more natural and closer to face to face interaction
   • Easier to identify individual voices on shared conference calls
2. Vodafone Ireland’s mobile data network achieved the best download speeds of all Irish mobile operators as recorded by random customers using the Speedtest.net application for the period between January 2012 and February 2013. This result is based on over 100,000 samples from customers using iOS and Android operated smartphones submitted on a nationwide basis. Speedtest.net is the global standard in Internet connection testing and one of the most popular independent data speed verification services in the world (www.speedtest.net).

For further information:

• Darina Sexton, Vodafone Ireland – darina.sexton@vodafone.com or 0877753000
• Eilish Joyce, FTI Consulting – eilish.joyce@fticonsulting.com or 087 791 4641

31st May 2013: Vodafone Ireland has improved its mobile voice network across County Wexford, providing Vodafone customers with an even better service when on Ireland's leading network. Overall, now 145,000 people could benefit from these improvements in Adamstown, Arthurstown, Blackwater, Bunclody, Cahore, Campile, Carnew, Castlebridge Clonroche, Courtow, Enniscorthy, Ferns, Fethard-on-Sea, Gorey, Kilmore Quay, Kilmuckridge, New Ross, Oilgate, Rosslare and Wexford Town as well as locations along the N11, N25 and N30.  
Vodafone has commenced a nationwide upgrade of its entire mobile network.  The enhancements of voice services in Wexford are the first phase of the upgrade programme in this area.  The next phase will see Vodafone bring mobile data services to everywhere in Wexford customers can currently make voice calls.
“The improvements we have already made to the network in Wexford will mean customers will have an enhanced voice quality experience and in the coming weeks, high speed data coverage throughout the area.” said Sheila Kavanagh, head of mobile networks at Vodafone Ireland.
Vodafone Ireland has invested a billion euro in Ireland to date and its nationwide network upgrade has been enabled by Vodafone’s acquisition of the largest allocation of spectrum in November 2012.  A new network hub has been created where customers can view the level of coverage in their area at www.vodafone.ie/network
Ends

Note to editors:
Vodafone Ireland’s mobile data network achieved the best download speeds of all Irish mobile operators as recorded by random customers using the

For further information:
Darina Sexton, Vodafone Ireland – darina.sexton@vodafone.com or 0877753000
Eilish Joyce, FTI Consulting – eilish.joyce@fticonsulting.com or 087 791 4641

About Vodafone
Vodafone is Ireland’s leading total communications provider with 2.41 million customers across mobile, fixed line and DSL.  At 31 March 2013 Vodafone Ireland’s mobile telecoms base was 2.2 million.
Vodafone is one of the world's largest mobile communications companies by revenue with approximately 403 million customers in its controlled and jointly controlled markets as of 31 March 2013. Vodafone currently has equity interests in over 30 countries across five continents and more than 50 partner networks worldwide. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com

31st May 2013: Vodafone Ireland has improved its mobile voice network across County Kilkenny, providing Vodafone customers with an even better service when on Ireland's leading network.  Overall, now 95,000 people could benefit from these improvements in Ballyhale, Ballyragget, Callan, Castlecomer, Freshford, Inistioge, Kilkenny City and Mullinavat as well as locations along areas along the N10 and M9. 
Vodafone has commenced a nationwide upgrade of its entire mobile network.  The enhancements of voice services in Kilkenny are the first phase of the upgrade programme in this area.  The next phase will see Vodafone bring mobile data services to everywhere in Kilkenny customers can currently make voice calls.
“The improvements we have already made to the network in Kilkenny will mean customers will have an enhanced voice quality experience and in the coming weeks, high speed data coverage throughout the area.” said Sheila Kavanagh, head of mobile networks at Vodafone Ireland.
Vodafone Ireland has invested a billion euro in Ireland to date and its nationwide network upgrade has been enabled by Vodafone’s acquisition of the largest allocation of spectrum in November 2012.  A new network hub has been created where customers can view the level of coverage in their area at www.vodafone.ie/network
Ends

Note to editors:
Vodafone Ireland’s mobile data network achieved the best download speeds of all Irish mobile operators as recorded by random customers using the

For further information:
Darina Sexton, Vodafone Ireland – darina.sexton@vodafone.com or 0877753000
Eilish Joyce, FTI Consulting – eilish.joyce@fticonsulting.com or 087 791 4641

About Vodafone
Vodafone is Ireland’s leading total communications provider with 2.41 million customers across mobile, fixed line and DSL.  At 31 March 2013 Vodafone Ireland’s mobile telecoms base was 2.2 million.
Vodafone is one of the world's largest mobile communications companies by revenue with approximately 403 million customers in its controlled and jointly controlled markets as of 31 March 2013. Vodafone currently has equity interests in over 30 countries across five continents and more than 50 partner networks worldwide. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com

 31st May 2013: Vodafone Ireland has improved its mobile voice network across County Carlow, providing Vodafone customers with an even better service when on Ireland's leading network.  Overall, now 54,000 people can benefit from these improvements in Carlow Town, Tullow, Borris, Bagnalstown, Ballon and Goresbridge as well as locations along the M9 motorway.
Vodafone has commenced a nationwide upgrade of its entire mobile network. The enhancements of voice services in Carlow are the first phase of the upgrade programme in this area. The next phase will see Vodafone bring mobile data services to everywhere in Carlow customers can currently make voice calls.
“The improvements we have already made to the network in Carlow will mean customers will have an enhanced voice quality experience and in the coming weeks, high speed data coverage throughout the area.” said Sheila Kavanagh, head of mobile networks at Vodafone Ireland.
Vodafone Ireland has invested a billion euro in Ireland to date and its nationwide network upgrade has been enabled by Vodafone’s acquisition of the largest allocation of spectrum in November 2012.  A new network hub has been created where customers can view the level of coverage in their area at www.vodafone.ie/network

Note to editors:
Vodafone Ireland’s mobile data network achieved the best download speeds of all Irish mobile operators as recorded by random customers using the

For further information:
Darina Sexton, Vodafone Ireland – darina.sexton@vodafone.com or 0877753000
Eilish Joyce, FTI Consulting – eilish.joyce@fticonsulting.com or 087 791 4641

About Vodafone
Vodafone is Ireland’s leading total communications provider with 2.41 million customers across mobile, fixed line and DSL.  At 31 March 2013 Vodafone Ireland’s mobile telecoms base was 2.2 million.
Vodafone is one of the world's largest mobile communications companies by revenue with approximately 403 million customers in its controlled and jointly controlled markets as of 31 March 2013. Vodafone currently has equity interests in over 30 countries across five continents and more than 50 partner networks worldwide. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com

The new online hub will provide festival-goers with exclusive content, the latest news, inside reviews and buzz around the festivals as well as great giveaways across the summer. Contributors to Vodafone Centre Stage will include guests from the world of entertainment, music and arts, such as DJ and actress, Michelle Doherty, Ireland’s foremost festival blogger Mark Graham, leading culture guide, Le Cool Dublin and comedian Bernard O’Shea.

Announcing Centre Stage Paula Murphy, Vodafone said “Ireland is famous for some of the best festivals in Europe, each with its own unique personality. We’re looking forward to adding to the great experiences already on offer. We’ll be there during the build-up, fuelling the anticipation with Centre Stage content and giveaways, helping to make sure that everyone has the best possible time using our superior network, so people can share their festival experience with their friends.  And of course we’ll be providing charging facilities so no one misses anything. Vodafone Centre Stage is there to make sure that the stage is set for summer”
To experience the ‘Centre Stage’ hub visit www.vodafone.ie/centrestage

-ENDS-

Further information:
Ger McCarthy/ Norman Pratt, Weber Shandwick, 01 676 0168 or 086 233 3590/ 086 151 8921  
Darina Sexton, Vodafone Ireland, 087 775 3000 /Cara Twohig, Vodafone Ireland, 087 688 7316

Editors Notes:

Vodafone Summer of Festival Calendar:
Forbidden Fruit, Royal Hospital Kilmainham, Dublin  1st – 3rd June 2013
Sea Sessions, Bundoran, Co Donegal, 21st – 23rd June 2013
Body & Soul, Ballinlough Castle, Co Westmeath, 21st – 23rd June 2013
Live at the Marquee, Cork, 12th – 21st July 2013
Vodafone Comedy Festival, Iveagh Gardens, Dublin, 26th – 29th July 2013
Castlepalooza Music and Arts Festival, Charleville Castle, Co Westmeath 2nd – 4th August 2013
Electric Picnic, Stradbally, Co Laois, 1st – 3rd September 2013

About Vodafone
Vodafone is Ireland’s leading total communications provider with 2.41 million customers across mobile, fixed line and DSL.  At 31 March 2013 Vodafone Ireland’s mobile telecoms base was 2.2 million Vodafone is one of the world's largest mobile communications companies by revenue with approximately 403 million customers in its controlled and jointly controlled markets as of 31 March 2013. Vodafone currently has equity interests in over 30 countries across five continents and more than 50 partner networks worldwide. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com

Vodafone hands over jersey to ‘MIND OUR MEN’ campaign for football and hurling championship openers

Clubs will have up to four members trained to ‘Spot the Signs and Save a Life’

Wednesday, May 22, 2013: Pieta House, the suicide and self-harm crisis centre, and Dublin GAA, with the backing of the county’s sponsors Vodafone, have today launched their partnership on the MIND OUR MEN campaign which aims to tackle the crisis of male suicide in Ireland.

The initiative will see Dublin GAA and Vodafone officially support Pieta House in encouraging clubs across the county to support the suicide crisis centre’s ‘MIND OUR MEN’ campaign.

As part of the MIND OUR MEN campaign, Pieta House are running the MIND UR BUDDY programme which aims to teach groups and organisations how to recognise the signs and symptoms of suicide and what to do if they have to refer a friend to a service like Pieta House.

In supporting this campaign, Dublin GAA will be asking clubs to put forward up to four men or women to for a half-day of training under the MIND UR BUDDY programme. Every club in the county will be contacted over the coming weeks to invite them to information evenings on the programme around the county over the summer months.

The partnership was initiated by Dublin sponsors Vodafone, which will make way for the ‘MIND OUR MEN’ logo on the for the first game of both the senior football and hurling championship games. The placing of the MIND OUR MEN logo on the jersey of the country’s most supported county will help raise awareness of the unique campaign among the clubs, their members and GAA fans all over Ireland.

MIND OUR MEN is specifically aimed at tackling male suicide – men account for eight out of every ten deaths by suicide.

Vodafone, through the Vodafone Foundation ‘World of Difference’ programme, is funding the year-long work of Fingal Ravens clubman David Mitchell as he launches the ‘MIND UR BUDDY’ programme into clubs across the country. David applied for World of Difference programme, which enables people to work for a charity of their choice for a year, following the death of his father by suicide in late 2009.

Said David: "The GAA has an unrivalled network, with clubs in every part of the country, from the larger urban areas to the isolated rural countryside. Getting the biggest county of all in terms of participation numbers on board is a fantastic boost to the MIND OUR MEN campaign.

"Dublin GAA is giving a great example to every other county and we hope that their support will encourage clubs here and, indeed, other counties to get on board. Vodafone’s World of Difference programme is giving me the opportunity to work for a full year on launching MIND UR BUDDY into as many clubs as possible and getting Dublin County Board behind it is a huge breakthrough.

"Our ultimate aim is to have MIND UR BUDDY trainees in every club in the country. Think of the reach that will give us and the difference it will make if we have men and women in each club trained to spot the signs if someone is suicidal."

Said Dublin GAA Chairman Andy Kettle, "The fact that eight out of every ten suicides in Ireland are men illustrates the absolute necessity for a campaign such as MIND OUR MEN. We are delighted in Dublin to play our part and are asking every club to get involved. We really believe that this campaign will save lives. Saving just one life would be worth so much more than anything else we could do as an organisation."

Said Vodafone Ireland Sponsorship Manager Robert Hyland, "We are delighted to have been able to connect Dublin GAA and Pieta House to launch MIND OUR MEN across the county. This is all about making sure people who are suffering emotional distress are, first and foremost, spotted and then supported. No network in the country can help do that like the GAA so we are really pleased that they are putting their full weight behind this."

Ends

Pieta House has offered the following advice:

What triggers Suicide

Specifically, the two key triggers that would most often lead men to taking their lives are:

• The loss of a major relationship - Either through break-up or bereavement
• Anything concerned with employment - Redundancy, retirement, unemployment, or even uncertainty in the work force

Spot the Signs

The following are some of the key signs given by men who are suffering emotional distress and suicidal ideation:

1. Isolating himself – withdrawing from social situations and being less communicative
2. Turning off his mobile phone and quitting social media
3. Decreased performance in school/work
4. Emotional outbursts - either angry or tearful
5. Possible increase in alcohol or drug use
6. Behavioural changes - such as loss of appetite, or little to no sleep
7. Becoming lethargic and emotionally withdrawn
8. Becoming accident prone or continuously distracted
   AND MOST IMPORTANTLY
9. It’s the language that he uses that is most telling..... “I have no future”; “I see no light at the end of the tunnel”; “My family would be better off without me ”; “I wish I could go to sleep and never wake up”; “What’s the point in anything?”

About Vodafone World of Difference

The Vodafone World of Difference programme is all about supporting social innovators to answer their true calling by providing a €40k salary to work for the charity of their choice for a year.

Anyone who is over 18 years old, is a resident of the Republic of Ireland, and who feels they have a true calling to work for a charity can apply. Applications for this year are closed but those with a charity calling are asked to:

1. Choose the charity and project they want to work with
2. Work with the charity to create the perfect role
3. Make an application for the programme when applications are open

For more information:

Úna Ní Chárthaigh, Stillwater Communications on behalf of Pieta House, tel.: 086 3375050

Or

Mick O’Keeffe, Pembroke Communications on behalf of Dublin GAA, tel.: 087 8854072

Or

Eugene Hogan, FTI Consulting on behalf of Vodafone, tel.: 087 2497290

16th May 2013: Vodafone Ireland next Monday, May 20th 2013, will launch fibre-powered broadband. With Vodafone’s fibre-powered broadband, customers in fibre enabled areas will experience up to ten times faster speeds than regular broadband. Customers can choose standalone fibre-powered broadband or they can select combined phone line and broadband packages.

Introducing fibre-powered broadband, Marcel de Groot, Consumer Director, Vodafone Ireland said, “Customers can now choose from a range of new fibre-powered broadband packages. You only pay for what you need and most packages come with unlimited broadband usage. Keeping the plans simple allows the customer to be in control, choosing a plan that fits their needs without compromising on quality or speed”.

Customers have three simple options:

• Vodafone Simply Broadband: Standalone fibre-powered broadband
• Vodafone Simply Talk: Phone line and calls only
• Vodafone Home: Bundled fibre-powered broadband with voice calls and unlimited broadband usage.

Packages start from €30 per month and come with speeds up to 70Mbps. Vodafone customers can upgrade at no extra cost and various discounts apply for new and existing mobile customers.

-ENDS-

Further information:
Darina Sexton, Vodafone Ireland, 087 775 3000
Eilish Joyce, FTI Consulting, 087 791 4641

Notes to editor:

1. Up to 10 times faster is compared to average DSL broadband speeds as published by ComReg for Ireland in Q4 2012.
2. The new portfolio is available to all customers, new and existing from the 20th May. Fibre-powered broadband speeds are available to 300,000 homes and businesses in Clare, Donegal, Dublin, Galway, Limerick, Louth, Mayo, Meath, Sligo, Wexford and Wicklow. For those areas where fibre-powered speeds are not yet available the same product benefits will be provided but broadband speeds will be the maximum speed the customer’s line can support. Once fibre power is enabled, customers can then migrate to the new fibre-powered broadband speeds for free.
3. No extra costs’ applies to new fibre packages when compared to standard equivalent Vodafone at Home products available on www.vodafone.ie as of April 2013 and is subject to entering a new minimum term contract.

Vodafone’s new fibre-powered broadband portfolio includes:

	Price per month	Key Features & Benefits
Vodafone Simply Broadband	€30.00	20GB broadband usage at speeds of up to 70Mbps
Vodafone Simply Broadband Max	€35.00	Unlimited broadband usage and broadband speeds of up to 70Mbps
Vodafone Simply Talk	€30.00	100 minutes to Irish mobile, Landline and international calls
Vodafone Home	€40.00	Unlimited broadband usage at speeds of up to 70Mbps plus 100 mobile minutes. Landline and International calls
Vodafone Home Extra	€47.50	Unlimited broadband usage at speeds of up to 70Mbps plus 100 Irish mobile/ international minutes and unlimited local and national & UK landline calls.
Vodafone Home Extra Max	€55.00	Unlimited broadband usage at speeds of up to 70Mbps plus 200 Irish mobile/ international minutes and unlimited landline calls to Ireland/UK. 30 minutes to Australia/ UK/ USA and New Zealand mobiles.

Depending on the contract, there may be an install fee as follows:

	12 Month	18 Month	24 Month
Install	€39.99	€29.99	Free
Modem	€29.99	€29.99	Free
Walk away working (Optional extra - we install and connect your new modem)	€30.00	€30.00	€15.00

Install fees do not apply to existing Vodafone at Home customers.

About Vodafone

Vodafone is Ireland’s leading total communications provider with 2.45 million customers across mobile, fixed line and DSL. At 31 December 2012 Vodafone Ireland’s mobile telecoms base was 2.2 million.

Vodafone is one of the world's largest mobile communications companies by revenue with approximately 407 million customers in its controlled and jointly controlled markets as of 31 December 2012. Vodafone currently has equity interests in over 30 countries across five continents and more than 50 partner networks worldwide. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com

• Almost €25 million invested in expanding enterprise customer solutions offering
• Forecasting 30% growth for this financial year

Wednesday, 1st May 2013: Vodafone Ireland today opened its new Enterprise Customer Solutions division having invested almost €25 million in expanding the company’s capabilities in the fixed telephony market over the past two years. The new Enterprise Customer Solutions division marks the beginning of a new era for Vodafone following the strategic acquisitions of Interfusion Networks and Complete Telecom in Ireland. In addition, the acquisition of global telephony leader Cable & Wireless Worldwide will enable Vodafone’s Irish business customers to access an international network footprint.

Vodafone’s new Enterprise Customer Solutions (ECS) division will be responsible for designing, delivering and supporting complex integrated telecommunications solutions for business customers, making it easier for customers who can now have a single provider for all their telecommunications requirements. ECS will provide services such as managed WAN (IPVPN), cloud & IP PBX, systems integration and security solutions in addition to the company’s complete portfolio of mobile data and solutions. The department will be led by Steve MacNicholas, founder of Interfusion Networks.

Vodafone began offering enterprise managed data network solutions almost two years ago and has since doubled revenues in this space. The company is forecasting 30% growth for this financial year with the establishment of the dedicated ECS division.

The global acquisition of Cable & Wireless has expanded Vodafone’s capability to enable Irish businesses with locations in other countries around the globe to be seamlessly connected via one network back to their Irish headquarters.  At a business’ international office, the experience for telephony and business applications will be the exact same as the Irish head office.

“Vodafone is now a truly integrated telecommunications provider for Irish businesses and our ability to combine mobility with fixed infrastructure is our key differentiator. We have invested significantly to build our expertise in this space, and we will further enhance our nationwide network to bring data to all areas that currently have voice and also bring 4G services to market. We want to make it easier for businesses to purchase and manage business telecommunications; we now offer that seamless experience.” said Steve MacNicholas, Head of Enterprise Customer Solutions, Vodafone Ireland.

SISK Group, a diversified international business involved in construction, healthcare, distribution, manufacturing and property, has experienced how the rationalisation of ICT suppliers can drive significant savings and operational benefits.

Speaking at the opening of the new ECS department today, Ken Kennedy, Sisk Group said, “As a large diversified international business we were looking for synergies across our Group, and to deliver on our Communications strategy for fixed, WAN and mobile services to connect office sites and employees. Vodafone understood the level of integration we needed to make this a reality and with its expanded Irish and global capability, the implementation was easier than having to select a range of different providers in a number of different jurisdictions. As an added bonus, we have also secured 25% savings in our overall telecommunications costs.”

For further information visit www.vodafone.ie/business.

Ends

For further information:
Darina Sexton, Vodafone Ireland – darina.sexton@vodafone.com or 087 775 3000
Eilish Joyce, FTI Consulting – eilish.joyce@fticonsulting.com or 087 791 4641

About Vodafone
Vodafone is Ireland’s leading total communications provider with 2.45 million customers across mobile, fixed line and DSL.  At 31 December 2012 Vodafone Ireland’s mobile telecoms base was 2.2 million.

Vodafone is one of the world's largest mobile communications companies by revenue with approximately 407 million customers in its controlled and jointly controlled markets as of 31 December 2012. Vodafone currently has equity interests in over 30 countries across five continents and more than 50 partner networks worldwide. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com

About Sisk Group
SISK Group is a 5th generation, 150 year old family business. Founded in Cork, Ireland in 1859. It has grown from a small local builder to an international construction company, now diversified into Healthcare, Consumer Products, Stone Quarries, Property and other investments in Ireland, U.K., Europe & the Middle East employing over 2000 people. SISK Group has a reputation & a track record built around quality, reliability, partnership, integrity & trust.

Thursday, 14 March 2013: Vodafone Ireland today announced that its current sponsorship deal with Dublin GAA is to conclude at the end of the championship year.

The decision was taken following a recent review by Vodafone Ireland of the company’s wider sponsorship strategy and in accordance with the terms of the partnership. Vodafone will continue its relationship with Dublin GAA as an associate sponsor beyond this year’s championship, into 2014.

Announcing the decision, Vodafone Head of Brand Anne Mulcahy said: “Our sponsorship of Dublin GAA covered one of the most successful periods ever for the county across all codes and age groups. It’s a time that will live long in the memory of fans.

“Vodafone is delighted to have played a role in that success by way of providing much valued financial and other support for teams across all age groups, from the senior teams right down to the rising stars of the games.

“We look forward this year to delivering another busy programme of activities that, together with our financial backing, will help maintain the hugely successful on-going promotion of the games in the capital. We also look forward to continuing our relationship with Dublin as an associate partner and wish them well in securing a new lead sponsor for 2014.”

Dublin GAA Chairman Andy Kettle said that the county has never been in a stronger position as it sets about securing a sponsor for the 2014 season. “Vodafone have been excellent partners. They raised the sponsorship of Dublin GAA to a new level by way of the range of activity and support, financial and otherwise, they brought to the table. We thank them for that support over the course of the past three years and in the year ahead. The partnership between Vodafone and Dublin has been one of the most successful and mutually beneficial sports sponsorship of recent times,” he said.

“We will go to market in the summer to secure a new sponsor in the confidence that this is by far the strongest county brand and sponsorship property in the GAA and also one of the most coveted and high profile sports sponsorships in Ireland. As part of our new commercial strategy, a new sponsor will continue to enjoy the exposure and affinity that Dublin GAA provides with our massive fan base and large participation numbers. Evidence of this is the successful Spring Series, which has attracted attendances in the region of 30,000 for league matches played in Croke Park.

“We have enjoyed an incredibly successful three years across both codes and all age groups. The success of our underage teams in particular and the emergence of the hurlers ensures that the momentum and success built up over recent years in football and hurling is going to continue long into the future.”

Ends

For further information:

Darina Sexton, Vodafone Ireland, darina.sexton@vodafone.com, 0877753000

Irish Businesses Take On the IT Security Challenge

71% of Irish businesses say that IT security remains their biggest technology challenge

Dublin, 13th March 2013 – New research suggests that 71% of Irish businesses believe IT security to be the biggest technology challenge they face in business today. Research commissioned by Vodafone Ireland and conducted by IDC, reflects the increased importance of IT & data security in business as organisations embrace new ways of working and, in particular, react to their employees use of personal mobile phones and tablets at work.

The research was commissioned by Vodafone to explore Irish businesses attitudes to new ways of working and developing trends in mobile technology. It found that protecting company data while file sharing was a key concern for businesses across all industry sectors with a third of organisations stating that providing remote and secure access to company files was the biggest challenge in supporting a 21st century, flexible workforce.

The consumerisation of IT and the growth of ‘Bring Your Own Device’ amongst employees in the workplace are further driving the debate on IT and data security in business. While only 20% of respondents consider supporting employee-owned devices a major technical challenge, there remains a risk that the potential security issue of this growing trend is not being fully addressed.

The research also highlighted a more worrying trend for company mobile workers2 with 50% claiming to have no concern about data security on their smart phone or tablet device, demonstrating the immediate need for greater control by businesses of their employees’ use of mobile devices for work purposes.

Leo O’Leary, Head of Corporate & Public Sector Vodafone Ireland said, “We have seen a 37.5% increase in smart phone users on our network in the past year and our connected tablet base has already doubled over the last few months. This access to multi-functional portable devices presents both opportunities in terms of enabling greater productivity and creativity, but also raises important security challenges. Business intelligence and market information in whatever form, whether as contact details for customers, product pricing, or other commercially sensitive information, is at the heart of competitive advantage and reputation of one business over another. Security of data must always be a top priority and no longer needs to be as significant a challenge. There are now many mobile device management solutions available to businesses to put such structures in place to secure their remote network and mobile devices.”

Stockbroking firm Goodbody, has seen how a more flexible approach has improved their business and the service they provide to their clients. The company operates in an industry where security and data protection are critical but has not seen this as a challenge to change.

"The deployment of secure mobile/portable devices in Goodbody is key to our business and significantly contributes to productivity and mobility" said Seán Croston, Head of Technology, Goodbody. "An essential component of technology management is ensuring robust security controls and processes are employed to protect sensitive information and functionality. Goodbody have employed a mobile device solution with Vodafone which embraces and addresses our security considerations and provides robust data leakage prevention and boundary controls. This solution has further enhanced the mobility and functionality with our workforce."

ENDS-
For further information:
Darina Sexton, Vodafone Ireland – 087-7753000 darina.sexton@vodafone.com
Aoife Kelly, FTI Consulting – 087 4101818 aoife.kelly@fticonsulting.com

Note to editors:

1. IDC Research commissioned by Vodafone. The research was conducted among Irish businesses between February and March 2012 to explore attitudes and trends arising in use of mobile technology and new ways of working.
2. IDC iWorker Research commissioned by Vodafone. The research was conducted among Irish mobile workers between March and April 2012. For the purpose of this research, an iWorker is defined as someone who works outside of their office environment at least sometimes and uses a mobile device (laptop, smartphone or tablet device) to enable them to do so.

About Vodafone Vodafone is Ireland’s leading total communications provider with 2.45 million customers across mobile, fixed line and DSL. At 31 December 2012 Vodafone Ireland’s mobile telecoms base was 2.2 million. Vodafone is one of the world's largest mobile communications companies by revenue with approximately 407 million customers in its controlled and jointly controlled markets as of 31 December 2012. Vodafone currently has equity interests in over 30 countries across five continents and more than 50 partner networks worldwide. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com

About Goodbody Stockbrokers Goodbody, part of the Fexco Group, is Ireland’s longest established stockbroking firm with roots dating back to 1877. As well as being one of the leading institutional brokers and corporate finance houses, we are one of the largest wealth management firms in Ireland. Over the years, we have gained considerable knowledge and expertise in Irish and International investment markets and established a reputation built on expertise, innovation and most importantly trust.

About IDC International Data Corporation (IDC) is the premier global provider of market intelligence, advisory services, and events for the information technology, telecommunications, and consumer technology markets. IDC helps IT professionals, business executives, and the investment community to make fact-based decisions on technology purchases and business strategy. More than 1,000 IDC analysts provide global, regional, and local expertise on technology and industry opportunities and trends in over 110 countries worldwide. For more than 48 years, IDC has provided strategic insights to help our clients achieve their key business objectives. IDC is a subsidiary of IDG, the world's leading technology media, research, and company. You can learn more about IDC by visiting www.idc.com.

Dublin, 27th February 2013: Vodafone Ireland today announced the introduction of its new Managed Tablet service. Vodafone Managed Tablet is a suite of services that allows businesses to leverage the user benefits and innovation of tablets, while confidently maintaining visibility and control over company IT assets and data.

According to Forrester Research, 25% of enterprises are now using, piloting, or planning to deploy tablets in business. This is driven by the desire of organisations to move to new ways of working that provide greater flexibility to employees while improving customer engagement.

Vodafone Managed Tablet provides businesses with:

• A choice of tablet devices from all leading manufacturers
• Data connectivity plans that meet the specific needs of the business
• Configuration for the corporate environment, whether device is employee or company owned
• Security measure through Vodafone1 Secure Device Manager

Leo O’Leary, Head of Corporate & Public Sector at Vodafone Ireland said, "A key obstacle to tablet adoption by businesses has been the issue of retaining control of costs and managing data across a fleet of devices. This new end to end service from Vodafone offers the solutions and security to address that. Coupled with our network performance which was independently certified for being the best network for iPad², Vodafone Managed Tablet will enable businesses to seamlessly introduce tablets while addressing any potential security concerns they may have".

Ends
For further information:
Darina Sexton, Vodafone Ireland, 087 775 3000
Eilish Joyce, Vodafone Ireland, 087 791 4641

Note to editor:

1. Vodafone Mobile Device Management

Vodafone Mobile Device Management is a simple yet powerful way to secure and manage a business’ smart devices through an easy to use console ensuring that company data and applications are secure, while employees continue to access this data whenever and wherever required.
It has a number of features including:

• IT administrators can centrally deploy, secure, monitor, manage and support corporate and employee-liable mobile devices across the major operating systems like iOS or Android
• It allows a business to control administrator access to the console using custom roles, so certain individuals have the ability to do more or less depending on their job
• It notifies IT departments when a pre-defined incident occurs via email, text or dashboard message
• The console is accessible over the web and optimised for PC or tablet browsers, it uses the latest HTML 5 standards to provide an intuitive user interface
• It is a highly scalable solution designed to support an unlimited number of devices and mobile data
• Devices can be wiped from the central management system
2. Metrico Certification

Vodafone’s mobile data network was measured to be fastest overall for HTTP file download performance and best for web page download performance and latency by Metrico, a global leader in network and device testing, when compared to the other major mobile operators, as a result of wireless performance benchmarking tests carried out between 19th October and 7th November 2012 using the 3rd Generation Apple iPad device in independently selected locations in Ireland in Dublin, Limerick, Waterford, Cork and Galway.

About Vodafone Ireland
Vodafone is Ireland’s leading total communications provider with 2.45 million customers across mobile, fixed line and DSL. At 31 December 2012 Vodafone Ireland’s mobile telecoms base was 2.2 million.

Vodafone is one of the world's largest mobile communications companies by revenue with approximately 407 million customers in its controlled and jointly controlled markets as of 31 December 2012. Vodafone currently has equity interests in over 30 countries across five continents and more than 50 partner networks worldwide. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com

Tuesday 19th February, 2013: Vodafone Ireland today announced that Anne O'Leary, Director, Enterprise Business Unit Ireland, is appointed Vodafone Ireland CEO, with immediate effect.

Anne joined Vodafone Ireland from BT Ireland in 2008 as Enterprise Director. In this role, Anne has spearheaded the expansion of the company’s product offering to Irish businesses. As a key driver in Vodafone Ireland’s strategy to be the total communication provider of choice, Anne has overseen the company’s acquisition of indigenous firms, Interfusion Networks and Complete Telecom and has recently established a new Enterprise Customer Solutions department at Vodafone Ireland. She has steered new ways of working for enterprises, opening up the Vodafone Ireland business to create a more collaborative and solutions based approach to customer engagement.

Anne is an active member of a number of business industry groups, and was recently re-elected to the board of the Dublin Chamber of Commerce and serves on the board of University College Cork. Anne also served on the Government SME management development council of Ireland and has previously chaired an All-Ireland work group on behalf of the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and the Dublin Chamber of Commerce.

Anne has driven the creation and formation of the Women’s Network at Vodafone Ireland with the goal of enhancing diversity and attracting and retaining top talent.

Anne began her very successful career in telecommunications with ESAT in Cork. She then became manager of BT’s Global Service business and prior to joining Vodafone she assumed position of managing director of BT’s SME Business in Ireland.

A Cork native, she studied marketing at CIT and strategy and leadership at London Business School. She is a keen and accomplished athlete, and she and her husband Nick enjoy competing in triathlons.

Ends

For further information:
Cara Twohig, Vodafone Ireland: Tel: 087 688 7316 Eilish Joyce, FTI Consulting: Tel: 087 791 4641

About Vodafone
Vodafone is Ireland’s leading total communications provider with 2.45 million customers across mobile, fixed line and DSL. At 31 December 2012 Vodafone Ireland’s mobile telecoms base was 2.2 million.

Vodafone is one of the world's largest mobile communications companies by revenue with approximately 403 million customers in its controlled and jointly controlled markets as of 31 December 2012. Vodafone currently has equity interests in over 30 countries across five continents and more than 50 partner networks worldwide. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com.

  Smartphone users increase by 95,000 on last quarter
Contract subscribers grow by 18,300 in the quarter

 
7th February 2013: Vodafone Group Plc today issued its Interim Management Statement for the quarter ended 31st December 2012. The following information relates to Vodafone Ireland's performance during the period and should be read in conjunction with the Group press release available at:

www.vodafone.com/content/dam/vodafone/investors/financial_results_feeds/ims_quarter_31december2012/dl_ims_31december2012.pdf
 
Vodafone Ireland has retained its position as Ireland's preferred telecommunications provider with a total customer base of 2.45 million at the quarter ended 31st December 2012. The company also leads the mobile market with 2.2 million mobile customers. 

Smartphone usage across the Vodafone base continued to grow, with the company adding 95,000 new smartphone users in the quarter, an increase of 37.5% year-on-year. The number of customers using smartphones on the network reached 972,000, representing 48% of the total mobile customer base. This continued growth was driven by Vodafone's commitment to providing an unmatched customer data experience on Ireland’s leading network.
 
During the quarter, Vodafone Ireland secured the largest allocation of spectrum in the market under the multi band spectrum auction by ComReg. The acquisition will result in the rollout of faster 4G services as well as the provision of data to urban areas and the widest mobile broadband coverage in rural areas. 4G data services will enable customers to upload content faster than with existing fixed broadband and experience download speeds up to 4 times faster than 3G. 
 
At the 31st December, Vodafone Ireland’s contract base stood at 778,900, representing growth of 18,300 on the previous quarter. This rise in contract subscribers can be attributed to Vodafone having the best network for smartphones and iPad1 along with the increasing trend of smartphone adoption as customers take advantage of Vodafone’s competitive price plans with generous data allowances. Vodafone’s fixed line voice and broadband subscribers increased by 3.2% quarter-on-quarter to reach 246,600 at the end of the December reflecting the company’s strategic direction of providing an integrated fixed and mobile service to customers.

Ends
 
Note to editors:
 
•    Average blended monthly ARPU fell by 0.3% to €31.40.
 
 
Best Network for Smartphones
 
•    Metrico Certification
In December 2012, Vodafone’s mobile data network was measured to be the fastest overall for HTTP file upload and download performance and web page download speeds by Metrico, a global leader in network and device testing, when compared to the other major mobile operators, in independently selected locations in Dublin, Limerick, Waterford, Cork & Galway.
 
•    Speedtest.net Certification
Vodafone Ireland’s mobile data network achieved the best download speeds of all Irish mobile operators as recorded by random customers using the Speedtest.net application for the period between January 2012 and December 2012. This result is based on over 100,000 samples from customers using iOS and Android operated smartphones submitted on a nationwide basis. Speedtest.net is the global standard in Internet connection testing and one of the most popular independent data speed verification services in the world (www.speedtest.net).
 
 
Best Network for iPad
 
Metrico Certification
Vodafone’s mobile data network was measured to be fastest overall for HTTP file download performance and best for web page download performance and latency by Metrico, a global leader in network and device testing, when compared to the other major mobile operators, as a result of wireless performance benchmarking tests carried out between 19th October and 7th November 2012 using the 3rd Generation Apple iPad device in independently selected locations in Ireland in Dublin, Limerick, Waterford, Cork and Galway
 
 
For further information:
Darina Sexton, Vodafone Ireland: Tel: 087 775 3000
Eilish Joyce, FTI Consulting: Tel: 087 791 4641
 
About Vodafone
Vodafone is Ireland’s leading total communications provider with 2.45 million customers across mobile, fixed line and DSL.  At 31st December 2012 Vodafone Ireland’s mobile telecoms base was 2.22 million.
 

Saturday 2nd March 2013

Vodafone Ireland are delighted to announce the launch of their 2013/14 Graduate campaign happening in their Headquarters in Leopardstown, Dublin on Saturday 2nd March between 10am and 12pm.

The launch marks the fourth year of the Graduate programme in Vodafone Ireland which has been running since 2009. This year we are offering 25 lucky graduates the fantastic opportunity to join the company for a 12 month placement commencing in September 2013. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to work on three different assignments during the programme including a placement within one of our retail stores giving you a flavour of what we are all about - our customers!

We will accept applications from all disciplines ranging from Technology and Engineering to Business and Marketing. You also need to have (or are expecting) a 2:1 in your undergraduate in any subject or a merit in your postgraduate degree and be fully eligible to work in Ireland for 12 months from September 2013.

Along with working in one of the top branded companies worldwide, you will also work in a state of the art office, receiving a €26k salary, with the opportunity to earn an additional €3K in performance bonus, a free smartphone and a laptop, have access to our on-site gym and subsidised canteen as well as being eligible for lots of discounts on products and services. You can apply for the programme via our website www.vodafone.ie/graduateopportunities from 1st April 2013, closing for applications on the 17th June 2013.

Come Visit Us at our Launch Event - Saturday 2nd March.

Why not come visit us in HQ in Mountainview, Leopardstown Dublin on Saturday 2nd March between 10am and 12pm. You will receive a full tour of our fabulous office, have the opportunity to hear about what we do and also meet with some of our current graduates and their managers.

Be quick those spaces will be allocated on a first come, first serve basis. If you are interested please register here.

DUBLIN—September 28, 2012—Vodafone Ireland today announced it will offer iPhone 5 beginning Friday, September 28.  iPhone 5 pricing details can be found at www.vodafone.ie.

iPhone 5 is the thinnest and lightest iPhone ever, completely redesigned to feature a stunning new 4-inch Retina display; an Apple-designed A6 chip for blazing fast performance; and ultrafast wireless technology—all while delivering even better battery life. iPhone 5 comes with iOS 6, the world’s most advanced mobile operating system with over 200 new features including: the all new Maps app with Apple-designed cartography and turn-by-turn navigation; Facebook integration; Passbook organization and even more Siri features and languages.

"We are delighted to deliver the latest iPhone 5 to our customers in Ireland," said Vodafone Ireland Consumer Director Marcel de Groot.  “Vodafone is the only network in Ireland with HD Voice, giving the clearest voice call quality, and the only network with speeds of up to 43 mbps, enabling customers to download and watch content 3 times faster than with standard smart phone speeds. We anticipate customers will have an unmatched experience with the iPhone 5 on Vodafone.”

Ends

Further information:

Tracy Godfrey, Vodafone Ireland, 087 969 1118 tracy.godfrey@vodafone.com

Ger McCarthy, Weber Shandwick, 086 233 3590 gmccarthy2@webershandwick.com

About Vodafone

Vodafone is Ireland's leading total communications provider with 2.44million customers across mobile, fixed line and DSL. At 30th June 2012 Vodafone Ireland's mobile telecoms base was 2.2 million.