The Taoiseach says the effects of the Great Famine are still evident in Ireland's culture, politics and identity.
Micheal Martin's been speaking at a commemorative event at Strokestown Park in County Roscommon this afternoon, to remember those who suffered or died in the 1840s.
Wreaths were laid and music was provided by Declan O'Rourke, whose album 'Chronicles of the Great Irish Famine' was released in 2017, which recounts the tragedy.
The Taoiseach says the scars of the famine will never fade:
"One quarter of the population of this island, died or were driven to emigrate. And of course, it was poor communities, which felt the full force of the famine places which had been filled by unique stories, music, and dialects are pushed to or beyond the edge of extinction."
