[2] The landscaping of the park was purposefully designed to be as unobtrusive as possible, allowing for clear views of neighbouring Croagh Patrick, Murrisk Abbey and Clew Bay.

[3] The minimal landscaping also serves to reinforce the stark visual impact of Ireland's National Famine Memorial, the Coffin Ship, a sculpture which stands prominently in the park.

[7] The memorial consists of a coffin ship with skeletons interwoven through the rigging, symbolising the many emigrants that did not survive the journey across the ocean in search of tenable living conditions.

Artist John Behan was commissioned by the Government to create a sculpture that would encompass the magnitude of the suffering and loss endured by the people of Ireland during this time.

[12] In 2010, Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Pat Carey lead the official commemoration service with an address and wreath-laying ceremony, saying "No other event in our history can be likened to the Great Famine for its immediate impact or its legacy of emigration, cultural loss and decline of Irish language.