The Christmas lights at Áras an Uachtaráin have been turned on.
The centrepiece this year is a stream of light pouring out of the lantern for the diaspora.
It is dedicated to all those who will not make it home this year.
President Michael D Higgins said this year has been a very difficult one for so many.
He said he was particularly struck by families who cannot come together this Christmas because some members are abroad.
At #ÁrasAnUachtaráin, President HIggins and Sabina lit a river of light, streaming from the Light for the #Diaspora on the first floor, across the grounds, and out to all the Irish people and all those who cannot be with their families this Christmas. pic.twitter.com/Eg3ddDZ0Ib
— President of Ireland (@PresidentIRL) December 10, 2020
The latest advice from the Government for those who live abroad and want to come home for Christmas is to avoid non-essential travel.
Last year, more than one million passengers passed through Irish airports during the festive period.
That number is expected to be well down this year.
The Christmas lights were turned on at Áras an Uachtaráin tonight with a special installation for the Irish diaspora | https://t.co/XU4Edrig3d pic.twitter.com/5Chhnq7ZGi
— RTÉ News (@rtenews) December 10, 2020
