President stresses self-belief in festive message
THE people of Ireland are "worth much, much more than to be defined by this economic crisis", President Mary McAleese said yesterday, as she sent out her "warmest Christmas and New Year greetings" to Irish families here and around the world.
But she stressed the importance of building the self-belief and determination to breathe new life into our economy.
Mrs McAleese predicted that as people gathered for the annual festivities, talk would inevitably turn to the financial problems "which have brought hardship and heartache into many a home", she said.
"Mustering the self-belief and determination that will reinvigorate our country psychologically and economically is now an imperative," Mrs McAleese said.
"Our history has given us resilience in the face of adversity and maybe it's time to remind ourselves that we do indeed have many strengths to help us on the journey ahead."
Mrs McAleese emphasised the shared "meitheal of good neighbourliness, solidarity and volunteer generosity" and the strong business sector.
"We are a people rich in imagination, creativity, innovation and problem-solving skills," she said. Mrs McAleese also remarked on "the gift of peace" that had "already transformed life on our shared island" and the "extraordinarily loyal global Irish family".
"Above all, we have a talented and ambitious cohort of young people who deserve the gifts of confidence in their future and pride in their country."
- Grainne Cunningham
Irish Independent
