The President of Ireland Catherine Connolly has used her first Christmas message to encourage people to reflect "on the values that truly matter: kindness, tolerance, respect for each other's differences, and to reflect on how we may nurture our shared humanity".
In an address delivered in both Irish and English, the President said Christmas was a time of goodwill and hope, as well as an opportunity to look ahead to a new year filled with possibility.
Referring to the winter solstice, she noted that while this period marks the darkest days of the year, it also signals the gradual return of light - a reminder, she said, that better days lie ahead even in difficult times.
"Christmas invites us to reflect on the values that truly matter; kindness, tolerance, respect for each other's differences, and to reflect on how we may nurture our shared humanity," she said.
She said her thoughts were with the millions of people around the world affected by climate change, war, conflict and displacement, with particular mention of those suffering in Palestine, Ukraine and Sudan.
"Our own history, marked by forced emigration and loss, gives us a lived understanding of the brutal realities of dispossession, hunger and war," she said.
The President also acknowledged those facing loneliness, illness or homelessness this Christmas, as well as families missing loved ones.
"We think of all those who generously give up so much of their Christmas to serve the needs of others, the many wonderful carers - those supporting loved ones within their own families, and those providing care in homes and communities across the country - those attending to the needs of the homeless, the vulnerable and the marginalised, our hospital workers and our emergency services.
"I also wish to extend my deep gratitude to the members of the Irish Defence Forces who will spend this Christmas overseas, separated from their loved ones, safeguarding peace and protecting some of the most vulnerable members of our shared global family, in regions far from our shores," the President said.
Highlighting the Irish diaspora, the President said emigration is part of nearly every family’s story and extended best wishes to Irish people around the world.
Concluding her message, Ms Connolly said: "We celebrate this Christmas season acutely aware of the challenges facing Ireland and the wider world. Now more than ever we must work together and use our voices to celebrate diversity, to champion sustainable solutions to the climate crisis and to advocate for peaceful resolutions to conflict and war.
"I wish each and every one of you a joyful Christmas and a Happy New Year filled with light, joy, and peace.
"Níl fúm anois ach Beannachtaí na Nollag a guidh oraibh ar fad agus sonas agus suaimhneas sa bhliain amach romhainn."
