A survey undertaken by the Community Foundation of Ireland shows that 71% of respondents want the Government to meet its target of contributing 0.7% of GNP to the Third World by 2007.
The majority of those surveyed also called for greater tax incentives for charitable giving.
The survey is part of the findings from a research programme entitled "Consumer Attitudes to Charitable Giving." 1071 respondents were interviewed some months ago on behalf of the Community Foundation.
79 per cent of those surveyed agree or strongly agreed that "charities make our communities better places to live in."
Four out of ten respondents also stated they would consider leaving some money to their favourite charity or charities.
Brian Hanratty, Head of Fundraising and Development at the Community Foundation for Ireland said: "We are very encouraged by the results, which indicate a great depth of support for charitable giving by people here in Ireland, and it confirms that the vast majority of Irish people have a great sense of social justice when it comes to alleviating poverty both at home and overseas."
He added "This research also indicates the extent to which Irish people support their preferred charities – four out of five respondents stated that they contribute either regularly or occasionally to one or more charities."
Mr Hanratty called on the Government to introduce a scheme where VAT payments can be redirected to charities and appealed to the Minister for Finance Brian Cowen to extend the tax benefits that apply to donors making a cash donation to a charity to be extended to include other donations, including property and stocks and shares.
Meanwhile, thousands of protesters are expected to march through Dublin this evening as part of the international Make Poverty History campaign.
As many as 20,000 people may attend the rally, which begins at 6.30pm at Parnell Square and will march to Merrion Square arriving at about 7.15pm.
The musical line-up at the Dublin rally will include Kíla, Mundy, the Devlins, the Walls and the Hothouse Flowers.