Minute’s silence to be held for famine victims

A minute's silence is due to be held across the country later this week to remember those who died in the Great Famine.

Students at all state schools and staff at local authorities will observe the silence at noon on Friday as part of a new series of commemorations being overseen by the Government.

The FAI, the GAA and Tennis Ireland will observe the silence at all matches on Sunday, which has been designated as National Famine Memorial Day.

Community Affairs Minister Eamon O Cuiv says it is a fitting tribute to acknowledge the loss suffered in one of the greatest tragedies in Ireland's history.