Despite receiving 200lbs of prime venison for the festive table, it was this time 43 years ago that the Hungarian refugees based at Knockalisheen army camp, outside Limerick, planned a hunger-strike.
The Hungarians, comprising 371 men, women and children, were the last of almost 600 at the camp who escaped the Soviet crackdown in their country in 1956.
It was their second Christmas near Meelick in Co Clare and, despite the best efforts of the Irish Red Cross to make them feel at home, the men became restless. It was an era of depression, and there were no jobs available. The camp committee warned the authorities that if they were not given jobs, or visas to countries like the US and Canada, they would take action.
The hunger-strike ended after four days following the intervention of the bishop of Limerick, Dr Paddy O'Neill, and a promise from the government that every effort was being made to encourage other countries to accommodate them.
This account is given in a collection of 100 stories representative of life in Limerick over the past century by Denis O'Shaughnessy. It is his third Christmas production.
Another story gives a graphic account of how the 9th Duke of Grafton was killed while taking part in the Limerick "Round the Houses" Grand Prix in August 1936.
Limerick - 100 Stories of the Century by Denis O'Shaugnessy is published privately and printed by the Limerick Leader. Price £8.50.