CARLOW FIRM Netwatch will create 50 new jobs across its Irish and US operations over the next 18 months.

The property protection services firm is investing over €3 million in an expansion drive in the US. This will generate 30 new positions split between Carlow and Boston by the end of the year, bringing Netwatch’s total headcount to over 120. A further 20 jobs will be created by late summer next year.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny officially launched Netwatch’s north American headquarters in Boston yesterday. He said by harnessing modern technologies Netwatch had changed the way security and protection services were provided to private people and companies.

“Netwatch is a prime example of the potential of Irish services companies to become multinational companies, creating jobs and wealth not only for Ireland but also for Boston,” Mr Kenny said.

Netwatch, which provides real-time security monitoring to businesses and private homes, also has plans to set up a communications hub in Boston as its business grows in the US.

The addition of former Boston chief of police Kathleen O’Toole to the company’s board is helping to drive the company’s US expansion, Netwatch said.

Chief executive David Walsh said the company was delighted with the US reaction to the Netwatch security system. “In the past three months we have successfully won a number of contracts in the greater Boston area.”

Frank Ryan, chief executive of Enterprise Ireland, said Netwatch had grown continuously through innovation and a strong focus on customer services.

In addition to Ireland and the US, Netwatch also has a presence in the British market.