In this video President Michael D Higgins speaks about the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising and the need to continue the work of building the Irish republic.

[raw][/raw]

He says it was “appropriate that we not only recall our founding moments but also take the opportunity to imagine what Ireland might yet become.”

He spoke about the need to recognise the “complexity of the historic event that was the Easter Rising” and that, 100 years after the Rising, “as we reflect on the proclamation of 1916, and the idealism that inspired it, we are urged to reengage with the work of crafting, together a republic worthy of that title.”

He finishes the message by wishing all Irish people a happy St. Patrick's Day.

"May I wish all Irish people, by birth or descent, and those who have made new homes here in Ireland, and all who share our national day with us, a very happy St. Patrick's Day."