Ireland's Heritage Sites to Shine Bright in Support of Family Carers
Record number of OPW landmarks to be illuminated nationwide for European Carers Day 2025
5th October 2025: European Carers Day, which shines a spotlight on the vital role of family carers and the need for greater support at national and EU level, will be marked on Monday, 6th October 2025 with landmark heritage sites across Ireland lighting up in solidarity. Family Carers Ireland, the national charity supporting 500,000 carers, has welcomed the OPW’s decision to expand the number of sites this year, making 2025 the largest show of support to date.
A record number of OPW landmarks will light up in 2025, including Áras Mac Diarmada, Casino Marino, Collins Barracks, the Department of Education (Marlborough Street), Dublin Castle Bedford Tower, Dublin Castle Chapel Royal, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Kildare Street), Farmleigh Water Tower, the Four Courts, Kilkenny Castle, the National Concert Hall, the National Museum, the National Library, the Phoenix Park Roundabout, the Rock of Cashel and the Wolfe Tone Monument in St Stephen’s Green.
Family Carers Ireland is also delighted to have the support of PwC which will light up One Spencer Dock in Dublin and Eli Lilly whose Limerick site will illuminate in recognition of family carers.
Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and Policy with Family Carers Ireland, said: “On European Carers Day, we pause to recognise the immense contribution of Ireland’s family carers, the 500,000 people who quietly and selflessly care for loved ones every day. They provide extraordinary support that allows people to live with dignity at home, yet too often their voices are overlooked and their needs unmet.
She added: “This year’s European Carers Day falls just before Budget 2026. Symbolic gestures like the lighting of these beautiful sites matter greatly, but what family carers really need is concrete action from Government. Family carers need proper financial recognition, access to essential support, and a commitment that Budget 2026 will finally deliver for them. Lighting up buildings is an important show of support, but lighting the way towards fairness and real investment is what will truly make the difference.”
Family Carers Ireland is urging the public to join the campaign by taking a moment on 6th October to reflect on the invaluable role of family carers and to add their voice to the call for greater recognition and resources.
“Carers cannot be left waiting any longer,” Ms Cox said. “Budget 2026 is a defining moment. The Government has an opportunity to show not just symbolic solidarity but real commitment. We urge them to seize it.”
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About Family Carers Ireland
Family Carers Ireland is the national charity supporting the 500,000+ family carers across the country who care for loved ones such as children or adults with additional needs, physical or intellectual disabilities, frail older people, those with palliative care needs or those living with chronic illnesses, mental health challenges, or addiction. It provides a range of services and supports for family carers through its Carer Support Centres nationwide and through its National Freephone Careline 1800 24 07 24. See www.familycarers.ie for more information.