Minister of State John Moloney will join Ireland’s 45 athletes at today’s opening ceremony of the Paralympic Games in Beijing.
Ireland has sent a team to compete at every Games since Rome in 1960, and has won an impressive medals haul.
The 45 Irish athletes are drawn from six different disability groups.
Mr Moloney, who has special responsibility for disability issues, said: “It is a tremendous achievement just to get to Beijing and I know all those on the Irish team have trained extremely hard for the Games.
“The Paralympics are an opportunity for Irish athletes with a disability to step into the spotlight and to demonstrate their strength and skill and atmosphere of fun and excitement that has become the trademark of the Paralympic Games.”
Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Martin Cullen described the athletes as marvellous ambassadors for Ireland.
“They will be representing both their country and their sport with honour and pride. I am sure that Ireland’s great tradition in participating in the Paralympic Games will be further enhanced in Beijing.”
The Games run until September 17th.
PA