Bord na Móna to create 300 new green jobs

Bord na Móna has announced plans to create 300 new jobs as part of a major expansion into green technologies.

The semi-state company says the positions will be created in areas like biomass production, wind energy, resource recovery and environmental solutions.

The production of peat from Irish bogs is due to be phased out over the coming 15 years.

However, Bord na Mona says it plans to develop wind farms on many of its bogs across the country and also hopes to become the market leader in organic waste recovery.

The company made the announcement at the launch of its annual report, which shows it made a net profit of nearly €24m in the 12 months to March 2009.

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Eamon Ryan praised the company for its new green direction.

"I congratulate Bord na Móna for the successful implementation of their strategy to develop an environmentally sustainable business," Minister Ryan said.

"This direction shows us that by going green, we not only benefit the environment but we reap considerable economic benefits as well. These jobs in areas such as resource recovery will reduce the volume of materials going to landfill and re-directing them for use in horticulture and energy."

Bord na Móna was criticised last week by An Bord Snip Nua, which said the semi-state firm had expanded beyond its original remit and the Government should consider selling some of its assets.