Minister O’Donovan to attend International Famine Commemoration 2026

On Sunday 10 May, the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O'Donovan TD, will lead the 2026 International Famine Commemoration in Cohasset, Massachusetts.

The International Famine Commemoration is held to honour the victims of An Gorta Mór, and to acknowledge its deep impact across the world. The 2026 ceremony is organised in collaboration with the Consulate General of Ireland in Boston, the local Irish-American community, and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

The formal State ceremony will feature a keynote address by the Minister, performances by Irish and local artists, and a wreath-laying ceremony.

Speaking of the event, Minister Patrick O'Donovan, who will give the keynote address, said:

"There are few regions that can claim as great a place in the history of the Irish diaspora than Massachusetts. The Great Irish Famine, An Gorta Mór, drove thousands from their communities, their land and the only lives they had ever known. Massachusetts is just one of the communities across the US where they found refuge, succour and opportunity. Today, we give thanks as we see the legacies forged across this great state."

"It is also hugely fitting that this commemoration takes place here in Cohasset. Not only is it a town with a deep tradition of Irish settlement but it bore witness to one of the great tragedies of Famine migration. Here in 1849, the Brig St John sank in a storm within sight of the shore. Despite the valiant efforts of the locals, nearly all on board were lost to the sea. We are reminded of how great a risk these men, women and children took in committing their lives and futures to the Atlantic crossing as well as the brave efforts of the community here to try and save as many as possible."

Since its establishment in 2008, the International Famine Commemoration has been hosted in cities around the world with strong Irish connections, including New York, Sydney, Liverpool and Toronto.

Note for Editors:

The International Famine Commemoration was established in 2008 and has since been held in cities such as New York, Sydney, Liverpool, and Toronto.

The 2026 ceremony marks the 14th International Famine Commemoration.

The 2026 National Famine Commemoration will take place the following week in Portumna, Galway on Sunday, 17 May 2026.