For the first time since joining Eurovision in 1965, RTÉ pre-selected Reynolds as its performer rather than holding a multi-artist selection.

It is generally believed that this was in acknowledgement of Reynolds' co-operation with RTÉ during the well-publicised controversies and disagreements which had dogged the Irish participation in 1973.

Radio Telefís Éireann (RTÉ) held the national final at its studios in Dublin, hosted by Mike Murphy.

[1] Irish Army soldiers were stationed outside the studio after a bomb threat was called in to RTÉ seven minutes before the show, which took place during the most violent period of The Troubles.

At the close of voting "Cross Your Heart" had picked up 11 points, placing Ireland joint 7th (with Israel) of the 17 entries.