Well it's that time of year again - for the Taoiseach's Christmas message.

Enda Kenny has chosen to emphasize the importance of family and keeping in contact with them.

He says while we think of family and friends, that many will be catching up "through Facebook and Skype", but that the government is working "day and night" to strengthen the recovery for them to come home.

"For families at Christmas, Facetime - good as it is - is no substitute for face to face," he says.

Mr Kenny also says that as we approach the longest night of the year, when that is over "may that new light bring new prosperity and new hope to our country."

He also wishes Christmas blessings on everyone, and the "brighter days in the new year that lie ahead".