People from across Ireland are shining their lights in a moment of solidarity in our battle against the COVID-19 pandemic.

People of all ages are using phone torches, house lights, candles and even Christmas lights to participate in the initiative.

Carlow Courthouse lights up as part of the Shine Your Light initiative

It is being led by President Michael D Higgins and his wife Sabina from Áras an Uachtaráin.

Government Buildings in Dublin is also being lit up, along with a host of national and local public buildings across the country.

Irish embassies and missions around the world are also taking part - as are Ireland’s peacekeepers in the Middle East.

The Irish embassy in Santiago, Chile lights up as part of the Shine Your Light initiative

Even Irish airspace is taking part - as the Irish Aviation Authority is beaming a beacon of light into the sky from the new Air Traffic Control tower at Dublin Airport.

The National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM) is asking 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.

Castletown House Estate in Celbridge, Co Kildare lights up as part of the Shine Your Light initiative

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.

The campaign has secured widespread support from the creative and cultural community - with Gabriel Byrne, Sinéad O’Connor, Glen Hansard, Saoirse Ronan, Colm Mac Con Iomaire, Paula Meehan and Marie Mullen all joining in the call.

The Permanent Mission of Ireland in the United Nations, New York lights up as part of the Shine Your Light initiative

O’Connor said: “I'm really honoured to be taking part in this very moving event and am so inspired by the love we are all showing for each other by staying home.

"It's not easy. Especially for teenagers.

Kilkenny Castle lights up as part of the Shine Your Light initiative

"But it’s really working. So let's keep it going.

"I'm shining my light with love for all the kids and teenagers who are currently in care and haven't been able to visit their families."

Main image: Kerry Ross Castle in Killarney lights up as part of the Shine Your Light initiative