A survey carried out by Macra na Feirme and ESB Electric Ireland has found that young people between 25-34 years old were the most likely to attend a community get-together such as a Know Your Neighbour event and spend time with their neighbours. Macra’s Know Your Neighbour initiative is in its sixth year with events taking place countrywide. The initiative, sponsored by ESB Electric Ireland, aims to encourage more interaction between neighbours.

Liam Molloy, General Manager of ESB Electric Ireland said, “In our Red C survey, we found that 74% of 25-34 year olds surveyed would attend a Know Your Neighbour event in their community. Young people settling in new communities or finding their feet in a new area want to get to know their neighbours and build a sense of community. It is very important for ESB Electric Ireland to support the communities in which we operate, so it is fitting that we sponsor Macra’s “Know Your Neighbour” initiative.”

Macra na Feirme National President, Alan Jagoe, said, “It is heartening that Macra’s membership age group are the most eager to get to know their neighbours. The survey also found that 71% of 16-24 year olds would attend. This was in contrast to the findings that only 47% of 25-34 year olds know and regularly interact with their neighbours. This is something we will be focusing on as a youth organisation.”

ESB Electric Ireland’s sixth Macra na Feirme “Know Your Neighbour Weekend” will take place from 9^th - 10^th July 2011 inclusive.  The aim of the event is to encourage everyone to get to know their neighbours by organising a community event such as a BBQ, Teddy Bears Picnic, Family Fun Day or just a coffee morning!  Last year, communities throughout Ireland organised events, with at least one event taking place in every county.

Any group or individual planning an event should register for an organizer’s pack at www.knowyourneighbour.ie  The organisers pack will include helpful ideas, posters, t-shirts and balloons to help make the event successful.