President Michael D Higgins has released his Christmas message and paid special tribute to those working in hospitals and emergency services over the festive season.
In the four-minute clip filmed at Áras An Uachtaráin, President Higgins reflects on the year gone by and the development of relations with the UK, before discussing the true meaning of Christmas.
"My wish is that 2015 will bring our people a bounty of opportunities for flourishing and renewal, may the caring spirit that infuses these precious few days, spent in the company of those we love, extend to all and well beyond the Christmas holiday into the year ahead," he said.
