The Republic of Ireland’s electricity board expects to create up to 3,700 energy jobs in the next five years.

The ESB said new energy technologies were driving the investment, which will see 800 apprentices being taken on.

The firm said 1,300 external jobs could be sustained by projects such as electric car chargers and wind energy.

Taoiseach Brian Cowen said: “This is a major step in advancing the government’s commitment to building Ireland’s smart economy.”

He added: “The announcement shows that we are delivering on that vision and providing new and sustainable jobs for current and future generations.”

Energy Minister Eamon Ryan said: “Today we are stimulating the economy, shortening the dole queues and helping the environment at the same time.”

The Republic of Ireland has been hit by the worst recession in decades, with the rate of unemployment rising to 11% in February, the highest since 1996.
Source-BBC News