National Famine Commemoration

The first National Famine Commemoration was held in 2008, following a Government decision to commemorate the Great Famine with an annual memorial day. Each year the commemoration represents an opportunity for the modern generation to remember the devastating impact which the Great Famine had on this country.

The commemoration has been held during May on 6 occasions since 2009.

The National Famine Commemoration is unique among State Commemorations in that the venue changes from year to year. The ceremony programme comprises two parts the first of which is a community event organised by the host community and local authority with support from Department staff which culminates in the keynote speech by the presiding officer usually the President or Taoiseach. This is followed by the formal State ceremonial event, which includes military honours and wreath laying ceremonies. The ceremony is open to the public.

Department with lead responsibility: Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht

Email faminecomemoration@chg.gov.ie for further information.