NEW RESEARCH HAS shown that while nine in ten Irish people know who their neighbours are, only 57 per cent know them well and would regularly interact with them.

According to Macra na Feirme, a voluntary organisation for young people, the research also shows that 81 per cent of people did not want more interaction with neighbours.

The Red C national poll of over 1,000 people over the age of 16 found that younger people, between the ages of 25 and 34, had less contact with neighbours and were most likely to not know them at all.

How well people knew their neighbours was largely constant across region and area.

Those living in Ireland but not originally from the country were more likely to claim a lack of knowledge of their neighbour.

The results of the survey come as Macra launches its ‘Know Your Neighbour’ weekend, in conjunction with ESB Electric Ireland, for 9 and 10 July with 68 per cent of those polled claiming they would participate in such an event.

The aim is for people to get to know their neighbours by organising community events such as BBQs, Teddy Bears Picnic, Family Fun Days or even just a coffee morning.

At least one event took place in every county last year and this year’s event will be the sixth annual one with anyone wishing to participate, asked to register on the website.