Slightly awkward Government minister picture of the day

Here's Ruairi Quinn and a young fella dressed as a giant shamrock, as students at Blackrock College attempted today to break the world record for 'largest human shamrock'.

In fairness, the minister looks pretty comfortable with the situation.

The kid in the costume has the decency to look mortified...

(Picture: Department of Education and Skills via Twitter)

The shot was taken at Blackrock College in Dublin this morning, where more than 800 students were gathering on the lawns for the 'biggest shamrock' record attempt.

Boys from Blackrock, and nearby Willow Park, donned specially-made green t-shirts and arranged themselves in the shape of a giant shamrock, a position they held for five minutes to adhere to strict guidelines set down by officials from the Guinness World Records offices in London.

The event was being held to mark the 25th anniversary of their annual St. Patrick's Day badges campaign and to raise funds for the charity GOAL.

Over 5,000 students have taken part over the years, including past 'Rock pupils Ryan Tubridy, Leo Cullen, Paul Byrom and Brian O’Driscoll, while 3.5 million badges have been sold in Ireland and overseas, raising some €2m for GOAL and Aidlink.

The badges – which cost just €2 – will be sold by the students on the streets of Dublin and throughout the country in the run up to St Patrick’s Day. They can also be purchased online here.

Thumbs up to all involved.

No word yet on whether they managed to break the record, but we'll keep you updated.