People in Waterford and across the country are being urged to "Shine a Light" at 9 pm tonight to honour frontline staff and healthcare workers tackling the COVID 19 pandemic.
Those who are sick and who've lost their lives from the virus will also be recognised as part of the initiative.
Many people will be lighting a candle at home but, some buildings are getting involved too. Public buildings, our Embassies across the world and our peacekeepers in the Middle East will also shine their light.
Organisers say people are encouraged to be creative as they like and light up the night with torches, houselights, candles or whatever light they can find wherever they are.
Senior Government Official Liz Canavan said it is all about showing solidarity.
“Shine a Light is a national initiative that is calling on all our communities everywhere to shine a light this Saturday April 11th at 9 pm to create a moment of solidarity in our battle against the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said.
“We would like to thank everyone who is getting involved in this special initiative.”
The initiative will see public buildings lit up right across the country and in embassies around the world.
Organisers are also calling on local buildings, sports grounds and business to get involved wherever they can.
Meanwhile, the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM) is warning people to avoid candles and hot lamps near flammable items like curtains and furnishings.
It is advising the use of battery-operated candles, LED lights, torches and mobile phone lights and warning that if a candle is used, they should use a non-combustible candle holder never leave them unattended.
You can join the conversation and let the world know who you are shining your light for by posting pictures and videos online with the hashtag #ShineYourLight.
