President Michael D Higgins has called on Irish people around the world to work together in tackling the spread of COVID-19.

He's used his St Patrick's Day message to urge everyone to play their part.

The ongoing outbreak has led to the cancellation of traditional St Patrick's Day parades both in Ireland and around the world - with New York's parade not going ahead for the first time in around 250 years.

In his annual address, President Higgins said the values of "solidarity and concern for the well-being of our fellow citizens" are central to the story of the Irish patron saint - suggesting that the same values are needed to confront the current coronavirus challenges.

He said: "So often, as President of Ireland, I have been inspired and uplifted by the generous spirit of unity that I have witnessed in communities across the country.

"I have seen so many examples of care and compassion where communities have come together to look after their elderly and sick, and to ensure the welfare of those who are vulnerable and marginalised.

"That spirit, I have no doubt, will come very much to the fore during this difficult time, which will require generous and compassionate citizenship as we work to keep all members of our community safe."

President Higgins said people in Ireland should also remember that they're "citizens of a wider global community".

He observed: "St Patrick’s Day has become a profound expression of a common history that extends far beyond Irish shores, and of the strong bonds we share with our wider global family despite the miles, borders and oceans that may separate us.

"As members of that global community we must commit to working in a spirit of solidarity and co-operation, joining with citizens across the world in fighting this global health emergency."

Áras an Uachtaráin has also released an Irish language version of President Higgins' message.