President Michael D Higgins has presented the Presidential Distinguished Service Awards at Áras an Uachraráin.
The awards recognise work done for Ireland, or for Irish emigrants, by people living abroad.
Nine of the ten recipients have travelled to Áras an Uachtaráin from five continents.
Author Edna O'Brien received an award for her literary work which President Higgins credited as giving a voice to the experiences of women in Ireland.
Another recipient, Thomas Power who passed away in Australia last year and was represented by his widow Patricia, was awarded for his contribution to Irish community support.
Sister of Mercy Mary Killeen who has worked for forty years in Kenya's capital city received an award for her work in the Mukuru slum in Nairobi.
