Thu Sep 19 08:17:38 UTC 2024: ## Amazon Celebrates 20 Years in Ireland, But Calls for More Data Centre Investment

**Dublin, Ireland:** Amazon marked its 20th anniversary in Ireland with a call for increased data centre investment, highlighting a significant disparity between the country’s potential and actual investment compared to other European nations.

Speaking at the event, Amazon Web Services (AWS) Country Lead for Ireland, Neil Morris, noted that while the company has invested over €30 billion in data centres in other European countries, Ireland has seen limited investment. Morris emphasized the need for a robust energy policy framework, particularly in relation to offshore wind, to attract more investment from multinational tech giants like Amazon.

Dublin Lord Mayor, James Geoghegan, voiced his concern about planning refusals for data centres in Ireland, citing concerns about insufficient electricity capacity and lack of renewable energy sources. He stressed the importance of data centres for the AI revolution and argued that refusing applications hinders economic growth and technological advancements.

Enterprise Ireland CEO, Leo Clancy, revealed that 18,000 people are employed in Ireland by companies involved in data centre construction, highlighting the sector’s significant contribution to the Irish economy.

The event also saw the announcement of Amazon.ie’s upcoming launch next year, expected to boost sales, deliveries, and demand for vans in Ireland. Country Manager for UK and Ireland, John Boumphrey, emphasized the increased visibility of Irish products on the platform and predicted a significant growth in sales volume.

However, the celebration was tempered by Amazon’s announcement of a five-day return-to-office mandate, a move that has sparked concern among employees who have adapted to hybrid working arrangements. While Boumphrey acknowledged the potential for staff departures due to the mandate, he emphasized the need for collaborative in-person work culture to achieve the company’s ambitious goals.

Finally, Amazon’s Senior Vice President for International Stores, Russell Grandinetti, echoed the concerns of former European Central Bank President Mario Draghi regarding the EU’s industrial policies, advocating for less restrictive trade barriers and increased dialogue on transatlantic trade.

Read More