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Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross TD, and Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan TD, extended their best wishes to Team Ireland as they prepare to compete at the Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro from 7 to 18 September.

Minister O’Donovan gave the Team his best as he prepared to travel to Rio.

Minister O’Donovan said: “I had the pleasure of attending the Departure Lunch for Team Ireland recently, and I saw first-hand the resolve of the athletes as they began their journey to Brazil. I have no doubt that our 48 Paralympians will do us proud, and represent our country on the international stage with great success. I look forward to attending some events during the Games in Rio, and will be proud to cheer on Team Ireland. I wish every athlete, along with their coaches, families and support staff, the very best of luck in the Games. Our Paralympic athletes are an inspiration, and I know that the whole country will be supporting them throughout the Games.”

Minister Ross added: “I would like to extend my best wishes to Team Ireland for the Rio Paralympic Games. We have historically seen fantastic success from Irish athletes at the Paralympics, and the London Games in 2012 were a shining example with 16 medals being won. The strength of Team Ireland has been internationally recognised in the build up to the Rio Paralympics Games. Qualification for the Games itself is an amazing achievement and shows the determination, discipline and strength of each and every athlete. I wish to congratulate the Team on their successes thus far, and wish them the best of luck in the coming fortnight.”

Notes for Editors
Minister of State with responsibility for Tourism and Sport, Mr Patrick O’Donovan TD, will be attending the Rio Paralympic Summer games. 162 countries are participating in the games and each country is expected to be represented by its Government.

Minister O’Donovan will travel to Rio de Janeiro on 6 September and will depart Rio on 9 September. Minister O’Donovan will be accompanied by two departmental officials during his time in Rio.