President Connolly calls for hope in Christmas message

The President of Ireland, Catherine Connolly, has used her first Christmas message to extend warm greetings to people at home and abroad, while urging reflection on shared values of kindness, tolerance and respect.

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.

The President encouraged people to reflect on the kind of world they wish to build and leave behind for future generations, describing a vision of a peaceful, welcoming society that respects diversity and places equality and human rights ahead of profit and greed.

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. She noted that Ireland's own history of emigration and hardship gives the country a deep understanding of loss, hunger and war.

The President also acknowledged those facing loneliness, illness or homelessness this Christmas, as well as families missing loved ones.

She paid tribute to carers, healthcare workers, emergency services and those supporting the most vulnerable in society, thanking them for their service over the festive period. She also expressed gratitude to members of the Defence Forces serving overseas on peacekeeping missions, away from their families.

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 Ireland and the global community face significant challenges, and called for collective action to promote peace, celebrate diversity and address the climate crisis, urging people to approach the new year with hope and determination.