Two years ago the entire country and the whole world was gripped by the social media phenomenon the Ice Bucket challenge, and now two years on the craze that saw everyone drenched in ice cold water has finally paid off as scientists say they have made a major breakthrough in the fight against motor neurone disease.
It is understood the vast amount of money by 17 million who uploaded their videos to Facebook on in the name of charity has led to major research being completed in the hope of curing the illness once and for all.
Scientists say Project MinE, which was part-funded by the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association, has now identified a new gene NEK1, which is believed to be a gene that contributes towards the illness.
Scientists hope after further research, the breakthrough will, in the future, lead to a better outcome for millions of people who develop motor neurone disease every year.
The ice bucket challenge raised a massive €100m worldwide and saw a number of high profile celebrities take part including Tom Cruise, Charlie Sheen and Lady Gaga.