"Michael Collins was a man who played an irreplaceable role in securing Irish freedom."
That's according to the Taoiseach who was speaking in Cork today to mark the 100th anniversary of the ambush of Michael Collins.
Thousands continue to gather at Beal Na Bláth to commemorate the Irish Republican leader's death.
The ceremony began at 3pm and was marked by a historic joint address by Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Leo Varadkar.
Speaking at Béal Na Bláth, Taoiseach Michael Martin says West Cork played a huge part in Michael Collins life:
"Here in West Cork, Michael Collins was immersed in its defining characteristics of self reliance, determination and compassion. He was shaped by this community, and this remained his greatest strength. It is perhaps the greatest tragedy of Michael Collins is deaf that it deprived us of our best hope for reconciliation. The bitterness, which grew out of the events of the following year showed how much was lost in this place."
