The National Famine Commemoration is taking place in Co Longford for the first time ever today.
The formal state ceremony will be attended by Taoiseach Simon Harris and Culture Minister Catherine Martin and will start in The Green, Edgeworthstown, at 12 noon. It's an opportunity for the people of Longford and surrounding counties to honour those who died or emigrated during the Great Hunger.
The Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Colm Murray, says it's vital the event is held.