Famine Memorial Shirts will be auctioned in support of Celtic FC Foundation | OneFootball

As we look ahead to another Trophy Day at Paradise on Saturday (May 17), we are delighted to confirm that Celtic will be proudly sporting the club’s Celtic Cross logo once again to mark National Famine Commemoration Day, which takes place on that day.

With the links to the Irish community dating back to the formation of Celtic Football Club, we fully recognise the immense tragedy of The Great Hunger (An Gorta Mór) and the importance of remembering the effects this had on so many people.

The Great Hunger was a transforming event in Ireland, which changed the demographic and cultural landscape forever.

There is nothing else in the history of the Irish people that can be likened to it, either for its immediate impact or its legacy of emigration, cultural loss and decline of the Irish language.

The Great Hunger led to the migration of Irish people to Scotland, where they made their new homes, with many settling in the East End of Glasgow.

As a Scottish club established in 1887 with such proud Irish roots, Celtic will always be linked to these tragic events over 170 years ago.

The legacy of our Founding Father, Brother Walfrid, a man who was devoted to assisting the most in need within his community - many of whom had been affected by An Gorta Mór - lives on today through Celtic FC Foundation.

This year's National Famine Commemoration will take place in Kilmallock, Co. Limerick and was announced by Patrick O’Donovan, Minister for Arts, Culture, Communications, Media and Sport, and Chair of the National Famine Commemoration Committee.

He said: “The National Famine Commemoration is an opportunity for the host community to lead audiences in Ireland and abroad in reflecting on one of the most tragic and impactful events in Irish history.

"By working with Limerick City and County Council to share the story of their town, it can help put the suffering of the nation into context.

"The Kilmallock Famine Memorial Park, the site for this year’s National Famine Commemoration, is built on the very burial ground where famine victims were laid to rest in mass graves.

"It is believed that many are interred here, and the site stands as a testament to the loss, suffering, and endurance of this community. By choosing Kilmallock, we honour the memory of those who perished here, and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring their story is never forgotten."

Celtic Football Club is delighted to confirm that a selection of matchworn and match issue shirts from the game against St. Mirren – signed by each respective player from the matchday squad – will be available to bid on via our charity eBay account.

Bidding will go live at 5pm on Tuesday, May 20 and will close around 5pm on Tuesday, May 27. Keep an eye out for further details on how to bid.

Proceeds raised from the shirt auction will be devoted to supporting vulnerable children and young people through our project delivery in Ireland.

Thank you for your wonderful support.