Get all the very latest news in Ireland straight to your email every single day Sign up! Thank you for subscribing See our privacy notice Invalid Email

The President has urged the country to welcome all those who come to our shores “seeking room at the inn”.

In his annual Christmas message, Michael D Higgins also asked everyone to work together to fight climate change.

The President said the festive season is a chance to reflect on important events of the past year and think about what we want to accomplish in the new one.

Mr Higgins reminded the nation of our own history of emigration and the many Irish people who have sought refuge and better opportunities in other countries.

He added: “Christmas signals a time of light and hope, a time when we move beyond the Winter Solstice, An Grianstad, and perhaps begin to anticipate the longer days of light to come.

“It is also a time when we can all reflect on its central theme – the story of Mary and Joseph seeking refuge in Bethlehem for themselves and their unborn child and being repeatedly told there was, ‘No room at the inn’.

“Here in Ireland, we have our own long history of emigration, of movement, of journeys, of leavings and exile.”

(Image: Maxwell Photography)

Mr Higgins drew parallels between Irish emigrants and those now seeking refuge here, urging the country to welcome and support them.

The President said: “Today many people turn to us, their fellow global citizens, for protection and shelter for themselves and their families, and for the provision of hope for a better future.

"Do we dismiss them from our door, telling them there is no room at our inn, or do we greet them in a spirit of hospitality bearing in mind the history of emigration that is such a defining characteristic of the Irish people?”

Mr Higgins went on to praise those who have fought global warming and urged everyone around the world to work together on this issue.

He added: “The year has ended with a clear message from scientists we must do much more to avoid catastrophe.

“It was uplifting to witness our younger generation demonstrate their willingness to play their part in the collective action that is necessary. Governments have a key role in leading the necessary change.”

Mr Higgins urged togetherness in 2020, saying: “As we leave behind the dark days of mid-winter, and move towards a season of new beginnings and new possibilities, let us do so with courage and a real will to walk in solidarity with those who are vulnerable in Ireland and across the world.”