New Research from Ecclesiastical Ireland Finds 88% of People Feel a Personal Connection to Irish Her

New research released today by specialist insurer Ecclesiastical Ireland, part of the Benefact Group, has revealed that 88% of people across the country feel a strong, personal connection to Irish heritage. As National Heritage Week kicks off from Saturday, 16th to Sunday, 24th of August, this research highlights the importance of heritage and culture, and the sense of connection to our past that is so strong for people living in Ireland today. 

Irish heritage is deeply engrained in our society, and as Heritage Week festivities begin, this research has provided important new insights into attitudes towards culture and heritage across the country. The research also points to some improvements that can be made to ensure that everyone feels a connection to our culture and heritage. Out of 1,000 respondents; 

• 54% of respondents think future generations will engage with Irish heritage through a mix of technology and traditional experiences 
• 31% of people think cultural institutions, museums, and heritage organisations play a role in ensuring children stay connected to Irish heritage 
• 1 in 4 adults (25%) think social media is playing a role in keeping Irish heritage and culture alive in younger generations   

With the evolving landscape and influence of technology, the survey highlights how local heritage sites remain central to historical identity, yet 76% of respondents think children today feel less connected to Irish culture than previous generations. In contrast to wholly positive statistics, it is essential to incorporate new ways and means of keeping culture and heritage sites alive for new generations. Ecclesiastical Ireland continues to have a long-standing commitment to protecting and celebrating the nation’s rich cultural legacy in in built heritage, and is uniquely positioned to support historic properties, churches, cathedrals, and cultural institutions across the country. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges facing heritage custodians, Ecclesiastical Ireland, as a specialist insurer of heritage buildings, continues to be a trusted partner in safeguarding Ireland’s past for future generations. 

Speaking about this new research, David Lane, Managing Director of Ecclesiastical Ireland said: “As this research shows, Irish heritage and cultural identity is deeply woven into the fabric of our national identity — it shapes who we are and how we connect with one another. At Ecclesiastical Ireland, we understand the responsibility of protecting that legacy. As we celebrate National Heritage Week, we’re proud to support the institutions, sites, and custodians who ensure the stories of Ireland’s heritage continue to be told and the places of our heritage continue to be experienced”. 

For more information on Ecclesiastical’s heritage insurance offering, please visit this link.