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The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Mr. Shane Ross, TD, and the Minister with responsibility for Sport, Mr. Brendan Griffin, TD, today welcomed Team Ireland home from the 2019 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Abu Dhabi. The 91-strong team competed in 12 different sports and won a total of 86 medals including 30 gold, 29 silver and 27 bronze.

Congratulating the team, Minister Ross said: “On behalf of the Irish people I am delighted to congratulate Team Ireland on their fantastic success at the 2019 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Abu Dhabi. I had the opportunity to meet many of our athletes at the Opening Ceremony of the Games and I know at first-hand how special this wonderful event is. Representing your country at the Special Olympics World Summer Games is a tremendous honour for all the athletes and their families, coaches and supporters. You have all been the most wonderful ambassadors for your country, in every possible way, and we are very proud of you all."

Minister Griffin said, "I want to congratulate all the medal winners and each of the athletes who represented Ireland at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Abu Dhabi this week. The success of the Irish team is the result of the outstanding commitment and dedication of everyone in Special Olympics Ireland and all those involved in special Olympics sport in Ireland. I wish you all well for the future and I know you will enjoy celebrating with your families and friends in the coming days".