In his new year message on the eve of 1968 President de Valera speaks of the virtues of living in Ireland and the need for people to work harder so that Ireland can compete on an international stage.
Addressing the population in both Irish and English he conveys the Pope's request that the first day of each new year be consecrated to praying.
...That God would save us from another world war and give us unbroken peace.
President Éamon de Valera addressed the people of Ireland on 31 December 1967.