Taoiseach Bertie Ahern today said securing lasting peace in Northern Ireland would remain the most important part of his work in the New Year.
As Mr Ahern extended Christmas wishes to the nation, he said 2006 would see the development of better infrastructure, better public services and better opportunities for young people.
"I want to take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year. Christmas is traditionally a time when families and communities come together to celebrate a special and significant occasion in Irish life and I hope that everyone gets a well-deserved break," he said.
Mr Ahern also paid tribute to Ireland's peacekeeping forces working abroad ahead of World Peace Day next Sunday.
"This festive season I want to extend also my good wishes to everyone who will be working in our accident and emergency services and to those keeping vital public services running efficiently over the Christmas period," he said.
"I want to ask people to take the time to check on older the neighbours who may be living on their own. So I wish everyone a very happy Christmas, and a prosperous and healthy 2006."