National Famine Commemoration in Sligo

This year's National Famine Commemoration will take place on Sunday, 19th May 2019 in Stephen St car-park, Sligo. The event will be attended by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Josepha Madigan, Cathaoirleach Councillor Martin Baker and elected Members, Ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps.This is the third time the State Commemoration has taken place in Connaught. The ceremony will provide an opportunity for the people of Sligo to honour the memory of those who perished or sought escape for a new life from its port and will feature National flag and military honours before culminating in a solemn wreath-laying ceremony.The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Councillor Martin Baker said ‘It is an honour for Sligo to have the privilege of hosting the National Famine Commemoration ceremony. Preparations are underway, and over the coming weeks we will liaise closely with the Minister’s department and engage with our local community to ensure the ceremony is a fitting reflection on this tragic period in our history.’Minister Josepha Madigan, Chair of the National Famine Commemoration Committee, said ‘The choice of Sligo as host for the 2019 National Famine Commemoration is particularly significant given the strength of its historic links with An Gorta Mór. The Commemoration will honour the lost generation who died or emigrated during this time.This will be the 12th consecutive year in which the National Famine Commemoration has taken place. The ceremony will commence at 2.00pm and will include performances by local musicians and choristers, readings and prayers in memory of the victims of the Great Famine, a tree planting ceremony and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque.The focal point of the programme is the formal State commemoration with Ambassadors and guests from the Diplomatic taking part in a wreath laying ceremony.