Q: Just got my phone back repaired.  Trying to start it up again, but cant get any further than Ireland!  itunes asking me to unlock my pin but I cant get in that far

Hey maryfromnewbridge,

I understand that you are having some issues with activating your iPhone. I have an article for you that will take you through some steps for addressing this issue, and it can be found below:

Get help activating your iPhone - Apple Support

https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201407

You may also find some more useful information about your SIM PIN here, specifically the information that I have highlighted below:

Restoring

When restoring the device, you will need to unlock the SIM card to complete the restore process. The device and iTunes display the following prompts to notify you:

              

To complete the restore process:

1. Disconnect the device from your computer.
2. Tap Unlock on the device.
3. Enter the SIM PIN to unlock the SIM card.
4. Reconnect the device to your computer.

iOS: Understanding the SIM PIN - Apple Support

https://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT201529

Thanks for coming to the Apple Support Communities!