Oscars for Brie Larson in Emma O'Donoghue's Room, and for Benjamin Cleary's Stutterer

President Michael D Higgins has hailed the strength of the country's film industry on a night when home-grown talent was strongly represented at the Oscars.

Brooklyn star Saoirse Ronan, 21, missed out to Brie Larson in the best actress category (for her role in Emma O'Donoghue's Room) but showed her roots in her dress choice.