Independent Digital moves to Citywest

Independent News & Media PLC's new media division - comprising Independent Communications Limited and Switchcom - has moved its operations to City West Digital Park, where their new 30,000 sq. ft. office was officially opened today (Monday, 18th October 1999), by Mary O'Rourke, TD, Minister for Public Enterprise.

Independent Communications Limited (ICL) comprises the Independent Directory - Ireland's fastest growing on-line and classified directory - and IndoCom, Ireland's largest provider of Premium Rate and audiotext services, including the popular Weatherdial service.

The new purpose-built facility will initially house ICL and Switchcom (Ireland's largest prepaid telephone call-card business), both of which fall within Independent's new media division - Independent Digital. Employment at Citywest will increase from 110 staff currently, to over 200 staff by end-January 2000, with its fast-paced progress in both internet and mobile data solutions.

Commenting, Minister O'Rourke said: "In the last 12 months public access to, and use of the Internet in Ireland has doubled. What is announced here today is yet another example of the acceleration and migration of 'smart' companies to the digital platform."

Mr. Garret Doyle, Chairman, ICL said: "This move will greatly accelerate our rapid expansion in the digital sector through the further development of database management and fulfillment, information brokering, telephony, web and e-commerce services, as well as WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) technology for cellular consumers. Mr. Doyle added: "Liberalisation of the telecommunications market has created exciting new business opportunities for Independent News & Media, and we aim to be at the forefront of new media developments, to provide more choice and better value for Irish consumers."

Ends. Monday, 18th October 1998 For Reference: Garret Doyle.
Chairman, Independent Communications Limited Tel: 01 -411 2000

Pat Walsh,

Murray Consultants Limited, Tel: 01 - 661 4666