The Lord Mayor of Dublin Daithí de Róiste has launched the live animal crib at the Mansion House alongside the president of the Irish Farmers Association, Tim Cullinan.
The crib was blessed by Rev Paul Arbuthnot, from St Anne’s Church onDawson Street and Fr Enda Cunningham, form St Andrew’s Church on Westland Row.
Speaking at the launch, Mr de Róiste said: “Tradition is such an important aspect of Christmas and for many Dubliners, including myself, the Mansion House live animal crib was always a huge part of that. So I am delighted it’s back again this year.
“I know that the farmers always take great care of the animals and that this year will be no different.”
Helping get crowds into the festive spirit, children from St Josephs Nursery on Morning Star Road in Dublin 8 were joined by the Lucan Gospel Choir for a performance on the steps of the Mansion House.
Mr Cullinan echoed the comments, describing the live crib as “a gift from the farmers of Ireland”.
Despite support from the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA), there has been some opposition to the live crib on the grounds of animal welfare.
Last year, for the first time in 30 years, the live crib was cancelled.
The live crib will be open to the public daily from 11am to 5pm up to Saturday, December 23rd, and finally from 11am to 1pm on Christmas Eve.
