Taoiseach: Gathering for St Patrick's Day will 'undermine all of the sacrifices'

In a statement to the nation, Micheál Martin said that St Patrick’s Day is "a special occasion for every Irish person around the world", but this year's would be "poignant" due to the loss of 6,500 lives on the island.

The Taoiseach has urged the public to honour those who have died in the last 12 months by not gathering to celebrate St Patrick's Day. 

In a statement to the nation, Micheál Martin said that St Patrick’s Day is "a special occasion for every Irish person around the world", but this year's would be poignant due to the loss of 6,500 lives on the island.