A survey carried out by Macra na Feirme and ESB Electric Ireland has found that Leinster and Dublin neighbours interact more than neighbours in other regions. Neighbours in Dublin interact 3.41 times a week while those in the rest of Leinster interact 3.40 times. 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 Leinster neighbours were more likely to chat with each other than their counterparts are in the other provinces - speaking to their neighbours on average 3.4 times per week.  We hope that Know Your Neighbour Weekend will encourage neighbours throughout the Island of Ireland to interact more with their neighbours.  It is very important for ESB Electric Ireland to support the communities in which we operate, so it's a good fit for us to sponsor Macra's Know Your Neighbour Weekend.”

Macra na Feirme National President, Alan Jagoe, said, “It is important that you know those living closest to you, rural or urban. Obviously, our neighbours in Leinster and Dublin recognise this. It’s not too late to check out what’s happening in your area or to organise your own event! Check out www.knowyourneighbour.ie for events listings or to request an organiser’s pack.”

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.

ENDS

For further information contact Aoife Helly, Public Relations Officer, on 087 970 2336/ ahelly@macra.ie