The President has wished all people of Ireland well in his Christmas message.
Michael D. Higgins said he wanted to extend his "warmest wishes" for Christmas and the New Year to everyone in Ireland, and "in a special way to our emigrants abroad, and to the members of the extended Irish family".
He also paid tribute to the emergency services, thanking the Garda Síochána, the Prison Service, hospital staff and members of the Defence Forces at home and abroad.
Mr. Higgins also outlined his Presidency for next year, saying he would be "encouraging the widest possible discussion of ethics in every aspect of our lives, nationally and globally".
"I am confident that Irish people will draw on the character and resilience they have so often shown to craft a vision of our shared Irishness that is defined by the values of care, solidarity, trust and responsibility" he added.
The President also gave special mention to his upcoming State visit to Britain - the first by an Irish President - commenting "I greatly look forward to the State Visit to our nearest neighbours and friends in the United Kingdom in April".
