Are rich people in Ireland mean?

'Are Ireland's rich all like Scrooge?' an article in the Irish Times has asked. The context for the question is the next Ireland Funds conference on big gift giving in Ireland which asks why people of Irish extraction in the US should give to Irish causes if local wealthy people don't give.

The newspaper article quotes a wealthy Irish couple living in California who have made a significant gift to an Irish university but are wondering why the local rich are not also supporting the cause. Irish fundraisers are said to be reporting a growing resistance among American donors as the Irish economy booms.

There are an estimated 500 people in Ireland now worth at least $100 million and while many give money it appears to be relatively smaller amounts. The Ireland Funds conference on 20th April will share the secrets of their success with the aim of helping Irish charities maximise their giving.