Project aims to help Wexford cash in on cryptocurrency

A PUSH is on to encourage business in Wexford to join a new project that aims to cash in on the current cryptocurrency boom.

A new initiative from the founders of the Blockchain Association of Ireland (BAI) is looking to create a Crypto Coast running from Dublin, through Wicklow and down into Wexford.

Blockchain is the underlying technology behind cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin – a digital asset which uses cryptography to secure digital financial transactions without the need for traditional banking systems.

According to Reuben Godfrey, co-founder of the BAI and Crypto Coast Ireland, the East Coast of Ireland is perfectly placed to attract blockchain commerce.

‘Ireland is a known destination for software development,’ Mr Godfrey said.

‘Last year again we claimed the place of the second largest exporter of computer and IT services in the world. We are known as the heart of ICT in Europe. It is no mistake that nine out of the top ten ICT companies in the world are located in Ireland.’ He said that ICT companies have the same requirements when considering Ireland as a base such a highly skilled workforce, English as a native language and proximity to the US and the rest of Europe.

Mr Godfrey said that the Cypto Coast project aims to attract ‘high-potential blockchain start-ups to Wicklow and Wexford and foster a global crypto community’.