President praises people's 'solidarity' with storm victims
President Michael D Higgins has praised the "solidarity" displayed by people around the country with the victims of storms that hit Ireland in recent months.
Major damage was caused by high winds and flooding in many parts of the country.
In his Saint Patrick's Day message, the president said the saint's values of pastoral concern and human solidarity were "much in evidence" as emergency services, council workers and neighbours reached out to those affected.
Mr Higgins has also pointed to the role that migration continues to play in Irish society - through people settling abroad and others moving here.
He also had a special mention for recent emigrants from Ireland whom he says will be foremost in our thoughts on Saint Patrick's Day.
