A new survey rates early childhood development as the most important issue facing the country.
It replaces access to healthcare which was rated the most pressing issue two years ago.
The third most important priority rated by Irish people was the home life of older people.
The biannual VitalSigns survey, which was conducted by the Community Foundation for Ireland, asked 1,300 Irish citizens about key issues during the summer of 2019.
The Community Foundation for Ireland is a not for profit organization which promotes philanthropy in delivering a fair, caring and vibrant Ireland.
Since its inception in 2000, it has dispensed over €50 million to voluntary and community organisations nationwide, money it has raised through its donors.
The citizens' survey, along with input from its community leaders, informs donors and would-be benefactors and philanthropists, which social issues require intervention.
