Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Leo Varadkar has wished Team Ireland the very best of luck at the London 2012 Paralympic Games.
Minister Varadkar was speaking ahead of his attendance at the Opening Ceremony today, where he is representing the Government. He will also be attending the swimming and cycling events this week in which Irish athletes are competing.
“I would like to wish our 49 athletes every success at the London 2012 Paralympic Games. The hard work and commitment of the team, their coaches and officials over the past four years in preparing for the London Games is commendable.
“Irish Paralympic sport has never been stronger. Our London 2012 Paralympic team has five reigning world champions and two defending Paralympic champions. Paralympics Ireland has done a wonderful job in developing Paralympic sport in this country.
“The Irish Paralympic team joins the elite group of people who have represented their country at the highest level. They have already proved themselves to be great ambassadors for Ireland and for sport. I know they will do us proud at the London Paralympic Games and continue to inspire.”
Ends
Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport: 01 6041090 /01 6041087
Nick Miller 086 6992080
Note for Editors
High performance funding to Paralympics Ireland has been ring-fenced and increased during the current Paralympic cycle as follows:
€400,000 in 2009
€500,000 in 2010
€508,000 in 2011
€700,000 in 2012
In addition to this, Paralympic athletes also receive funding under the International Carding Scheme (€625,000 in 2012).