Celtic Tiger Ireland needs to rebuild its grassroots communities, according to the organisers of a series of events planned for today.
The Know Your Neighbour Weekend is encouraging people to organise activities over the next two days to bring communities closer together.
The scheme is being backed by Government and is aimed at countering the impact the massive social changes brought in by economic growth have had on local communities.
It hopes to particularly target commuter towns where new arrivals in the area travel to and from their homes without forming close ties with their neighbours.
Catherine Buckley, of rural group Macra na Feirme which is co-ordinating the scheme, said: "While we've seen increased prosperity in Ireland in recent years, many people are now also faced with the increased pressures that come hand-in-hand with modern living.
"All too often we hear people saying that they don't even know their own neighbours."
Some 1,500 organisers' packs (containing printed posters, fliers, invitations and stickers) had been requested for events. But even if people are unable to organise an activity, they are being asked to mark the weekend by doing something simple like saying hello or inviting a neighbour in for a cup of tea.
"In whatever way they can, we want people to make an effort on Know Your Neighbour Weekend to get to know their neighbours better," added Ms Buckley.
"So, if you don't know your neighbours, do something this weekend to get to know them."
For further details see the website www.knowyourneighbour.ie
PA