The bio-energy industry in Ireland has the potential to provide thousands of employment opportunities.

This is the claim made during a recent event in Dublin, which debated the future of the sector.

According to one expert, there are an estimated 350,000 plus individuals working in Germany's renewable energy industry, with 4,700 biogas plants now established in the country.

Byrne Wallace representative Sean Wallace stated that Ireland has the capacity to support 1,000 anaerobic plants producing bio-methane from silage.

The legal firm specialist said there is substantial scope to develop the nation's green economy.

Echoing his comments, Ian Duffy of Farrell Grant Sparks added there is the potential to "create thousands of direct and indirect jobs" in bio-energy.

Unemployment in Ireland rose slightly by 0.1 points in May 2011 compared with April to 14.8 per cent. The increase was caused by a rise of 2,600 in the number of people on the Live Register of those claiming benefits for being out of work.

Posted by Alex Donnell