Marking the 179th anniversary of one of the worst times in Ireland’s history, the An Gorta Mor Committee for Clones Poor Law Union recently hosted the Annual Commemoration of ‘The Great Hunger’ to remember all those who died in The Famine, and all who are buried in Bully’s Acre.

Taking place on Sunday, May 19 in the Bully’s Acre, Scotshouse Road, Clones, people of all ages gathered in the sunshine to remember all those who suffered and lost their lives in the island-wide famine, paying their respects to those buried at the site.

This year, the commemoration had a theme concentrating on the ‘Cultural Significance, Importance and Elements of an Irish Wake’, reflecting on the traditional personal and community response to death, and how the passing of a loved one was mourned and marked.

Some beautiful live music added to the thoughtful mood, as the modern community once again reflected on those who have passed on, with a particular focus on all those whose lives were so tragically lost almost 180 years ago.