President inspired by Ireland's 'resourcefulness'

PRESIDENT MICHAEL D Higgins has acknowledged in his Christmas message to the Irish people that unemployment, financial insecurity and emigration “will cast a dark shadow” over many families this year.

Mr Higgins said while this period was “troubling and testing”, he believed the Irish people had “the resilience, the fortitude and the wisdom” to move beyond destructive cynicism and recrimination.

“While we have nearly always tended to think of Christmas as a happy time, as families come together to enjoy the festive season, I am also conscious that for some of you this year will be a Christmas where unemployment, financial insecurity or the absence of a loved one now living abroad will cast a dark shadow,” Mr Higgins said.

He also acknowledged those suffering from illness or bereavement.

The President said he had been inspired to witness “the innovation and the resourcefulness” that had come to the fore at a time of economic need. He had seen communities renewing themselves, with people showing practical concern for each other, he added.

Mr Higgins said there were some positive results in Ireland’s economic affairs, with exports continuing to grow and direct inward investment in a “robust” position. “But the great challenge of creating jobs, reducing unemployment, remains.”

Sporting and cultural achievements continued to enhance Ireland’s reputation abroad, he said.

“I am confident that drawing on our shared strengths and our ethical values we will rebuild a sustainable and strong economy while also at the same time building a just and inclusive society that ensures the participation of all its citizens.”

He said Ireland would “marry the best of its old wisdom with the new-found learning wrought from the chastening experience of recent troubled times”. There was much to be proud of, he said.

Mr Higgins sent best wishes for Christmas and the New Year to everyone in Ireland, “and to our extended global family across the world”. “I wish you all a peaceful Christmas and a happy new year,” he concluded.