A survey carried out by Macra na Feirme and ESB Electric Ireland has found that Munster neighbours have the lowest levels of interaction 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 only 55% of neighbours in Munster ‘know their neighbours and regularly interact with them’.  Attending a Know Your Neighbour event is a good way to introduce yourself in a fun, informal way. 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, “70% of Munster neighbours said they would attend a Know Your Neighbour event, the second highest percentage in the country. I would encourage all Munster neighbours to log on to our website www.knowyourneighbour.ie and see what is happening in their area or organise their own event! I will be making sure to meet my neighbours in Cork. Remember, don’t walk by, say hi!”

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.