Taoiseach Enda Kenny last night spoke about the importance of being proud to be “part of Ireland’s story” at the launch of a book featuring events from the Gathering and reflections on Irishness from influential individuals such as the late Seamus Heaney.

The Gathering – Reflections on Ireland is a 256-page full-colour hardback produced by the Irish Hospice Foundation. The charity hopes to raise €250,000 from sales of the book.

It features stories from some Gathering events and contributions from figures such as Bono, Moya Doherty, Brian O’Driscoll and Katie Taylor.

Speaking at the launch of the book in City Hall, Mr Kenny said it was “pride in our country and gratitude at being part of Ireland’s story that gleam out of every word”.

'A jewel'
"This is not a book – it is a jewel, a work of art and a social history. It explores the yearning for home – both as a real place and a place imagined," he said.

Edited by former Irish Times journalist Miriam Donohoe, it is described as "a celebration of a year in the life of a nation and her people – at home and abroad".

In her speech, Ms Donohoe said the book “is a reminder that we are a great country – never forget that”.