The vast majority of Irish parents continue to have their children baptised, a new poll has revealed.
According to a ‘Family Values’ survey undertaken by Ipsos MRBI on behalf of The Irish Times newspaper, 93% of parents have had their children baptised, with the figure climbing to 95% for parents aged under 35 and 97% for single parents. Those parents unmarried but cohabiting are least likely to have their children baptised, but the figure still stands at 86%. When asked about the faith of their child, 81% of respondents said their child believes in God.
However, the same poll shows that while baptism remains a priority for parents, the figures actively engaged in the faith formation of their children is dramatically lower.
In terms of Mass attendance, while 36% of respondents said they bring their children to Mass regularly, within the under-35s category the figure dropped to just 14%. Mothers are more likely than fathers to bring their children to Mass.
Meanwhile, 35% of respondents said they pray regularly with their children.
When asked about access to local primary schools and specifically if baptised children should have priority in gaining admittance, the majority of people, with or without children said all children should have equal access.