President Higgins thanks Ireland's Muslim community for 'invaluable contribution' as Ramadan concludes

In a statement, the President thanked Muslims for transcending the difficulties of Covid-19 during Ramadan and for their contribution to society.

This year, celebrations have been scaled back due to coronavirus.

Dr Nooh al Kaddo of the Islamic Cultural Centre says it is a very strange time for Muslims.

He said: "All the families will gather, but in a very small group, which is very strange for us, very unusual for us.

"It is a very, very difficult and hard time. It's a time for a celebration, so you can just imagine it's a time to enjoy the company of the people, that you cannot do."

President Michael D Higgins' statement

“At the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan, and as Muslims in Ireland and around the world come together in celebration of Eid al-Fitr, may I send my best wishes to Islamic communities wherever they may be for health, happiness and peace in the coming year.

With the impact of Covid-19 all of our lives have been affected. I know that Islamic communities have thus faced additional challenges in observing the holy month of Ramadan.

I wish to congratulate you on how you have transcended these difficulties in this particular year, and may I thank you for the invaluable contribution you make to Irish and global society.

Eid Mubarak.”