The Irish Wind Energy Association (IWEA), the national body representing the wind energy sector in Ireland has strongly welcomed an opinion poll conducted on its behalf by Ipsos MRBI which revealed that 80% of the Irish public support wind power.

This opinion poll was taken from 916 respondents.

Kenneth Matthews, CEO of IWEA said: "This is a clear indication that there is widespread support for wind energy in Ireland. The support shown for the installation of wind farms emphasises that many Irish people see wind energy as a real alternative which will help stabilise their energy bills and also benefit Ireland in terms of jobs and investment to the local economy.

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"The strong support for wind, as illustrated through this poll, should serve as a positive marker for policy-makers to continue the transition to a green economy and embrace all of the benefits that can be accrued."

IWEA's Annual Conference, "Irish Wind Power – Our Competitive Advantage" also saw the publication of its "Best Practice Principles in Community Engagement & Community Commitment" policy document which sets out a number of clear of guidelines that IWEA members involved in wind development are encouraged to follow. The aim of these guidelines is to ensure that the views of local communities are taken into account at all stages of a development and that local communities can share in the benefits.

Minister for Communications, Energy & Natural Resources, Pat Rabbitte said: "I very much welcome the initiative of the IWEA to develop these voluntary community engagement and community commitment guidelines for their members. The imperatives of climate change and energy security necessitate the switch to renewable energy. Ireland has abundant and excellent wind resources which will play a central part in our new electricity mix."

(CD)