Garda Tony Golden is being laid to rest this afternoon following a State funeral in Co. Louth.

The 36 year old father of three has been hailed a hero - after losing his life in the line of duty.

President Michael D Higgins and Taoiseach Enda Kenny will be in attendance, and all Dail business has been suspended for the day as a mark of respect.

Large crowds are expected to pay their respects to Garda Tony Golden at his funeral in Blackrock, Co. Louth later.

The State funeral is being celebrated in St Oliver Plunkett Church by Father Pádraig Keenan, Parish Priest of Haggardstown, in Blackrock.

Garda Golden was fatally shot last Sunday night in the Mullach Alainn estate in Omeath as he was helping a woman who made a complaint of domestic abuse.

The family of Siobhan Phillips, who was critically injured in the shooting, have expressed their gratitude for his bravery.

Chief mourners at the funeral this afternoon are Garda Golden’s wife Nicola, his children Lucy, Alex and Andrew, as well as his family, friends and colleagues in the force.

A private burial will take place afterwards at St. Paul’s cemetery in Heynestown.