Exporting energy - Questions remain

We have another, as if it was needed, issue to polarise society.

Though the divisions are not as virulent as those on other subjects the proposal to develop large-scale windfarms in the Midlands and export energy to Britain has provoked wildly contrasting reactions.

Yesterday, Energy Minister Pat Rabbitte and his British counterpart Ed Davey signed a deal to pave the way for Irish windfarms to export to Britain. The deal can be welcomed because it advances the role of renewable energy and because it will provide some jobs, though maybe not as many as is suggested.