It is with deep sadness that we mark the passing of James Anthony Boyle — known to many as Tony — the founder and former Chairman of the Ireland Portugal Business Network (IPBN). Tony passed away peacefully at the age of 73, leaving behind a legacy of courage, connection, and conviction.

Tony was one of Ireland’s leading telecoms entrepreneurs, building a remarkable 50-year career in critical communications both at home and internationally. He co-founded several successful ventures, including Sigma Wireless, and helped shape the infrastructure and ethics of Ireland’s telecommunications industry. He employed hundreds, supported thousands, and conducted business with integrity, passion, and loyalty.

Tony’s tenacity and principles made national headlines in the 1990s when, as co-owner of Persona, he challenged the State over the awarding of Ireland’s second mobile phone license. It was a case rooted in his belief in fairness, transparency, and the public good — one that remains a defining moment in Irish legal and political history.

Later in life, Tony turned his focus toward building bridges across borders. In 2016, along with his wife Aoife Healy, he relaunched the Ireland Portugal Business Network with an inaugural event at the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIP) in Lisbon. There, the IPBN hosted one of Ireland’s most recognisable entrepreneurs, Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary, for a sold-out business breakfast in partnership with Invest Lisboa. That event marked the beginning of a new chapter for Irish-Portuguese business collaboration — and the foundation of the IPBN as we know it today.

Tony served as IPBN Chairman for three formative years, laying the groundwork for the vision and structures that still guide the network. He was succeeded in the role by Aoife, who continued his work with the same purpose and passion for several more years. Their combined leadership helped establish the IPBN as a dynamic and values-driven platform for entrepreneurs and professionals in both countries.

Tony’s belief in people and potential was the heart of his leadership. From his home in Cascais, he remained deeply engaged with the community he helped build, always ready to offer support, insight, or a connection to someone new.

Tony is survived by Aoife, his son Sé, and daughters Aisling, Jeanne, and Anne-Marie. Our thoughts are with them, and with all those whose lives he touched — as a leader, a mentor, a friend, and a connector.

As his former colleagues at Sigma Wireless put it, “Tony’s business ethics, spirit, leadership, and friendship will remain embedded within his former employees and colleagues.” The same holds true for the IPBN. His legacy lives on in every conversation, every partnership, and every bridge the network continues to build.

Rinne mé é ar mo bhealach féin.
He did it his way.

Rest in peace, Tony. You will be profoundly missed — and never forgotten.

Photo: Frank McGrath