Those who drink the water should remember with gratitude those who dug the well, the President, Mrs McAleese, told an audience of about 700 older people at a rally in Tralee, Co Kerry, yesterday.
That Irish proverb, she said, captured the essence of the older generation's contribution to Irish society.
Ireland today was peaceful, confident and prosperous and it was thanks largely to the self-sacrifice and selflessness of the older generation.
"The prosperity we now have would not have been possible had it not been for the sacrifices and commitment of our parents and their parents before them. In times of little opportunity, with few choices, they worked, scrimped, saved and dreamed a better life for their children and grandchildren."
The President was addressing the All-Ireland Probus Rally. Sponsored by Rotary clubs, Probus clubs are a network for people who have retired or are semi-retired from their profession or business.