President Michael D Higgins says we owe a debt of gratitude to frontline workers battling Covid 19.
In a special address for independent radio stations, President Higgins expressed sympathy to those who have lost loved ones to the pandemic.
He says that this virus will pass and when it does we can show our appreciation by supporting what is local.
He added that other people have to be praised as well.
"We owe a debt of gratitude to the many others who are risking their safety in order to ensure the continued delivery of necessary services.
"Those who work in food production and essential retail, those who continue to care for the vulnerable, and the many others who are making an extraordinary and exemplary contribution to our country at this difficult time."
