6 December 2001 Edition
Adams commends efforts of local communities
Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP, speaking prior to a meeting in Dublin on Monday of the Patrons of the Special Olympics, commended the efforts of the 160 towns, cities and communities throughout Ireland who will be playing host to delegations for the World Games in 2003.
"It is a tribute to the people of this country that the World Games of the Special Olympics are to take place in Ireland in June 2003, the first time they have ever been held outside the United States," said Adams. "With more than 7,000 athletes from 160 countries due to participate a central part of the occasion will be the Host Town Programme. While there is still a lot of work to be done it is commendable that so many communities have come forward and are opening their homes in support of the games.
"The World Games are an important event in the international sporting calendar and should be used as a spur to ensure that the rights and needs of people with disabilities are at the heart of politics in Ireland."
"It is a tribute to the people of this country that the World Games of the Special Olympics are to take place in Ireland in June 2003, the first time they have ever been held outside the United States," said Adams. "With more than 7,000 athletes from 160 countries due to participate a central part of the occasion will be the Host Town Programme. While there is still a lot of work to be done it is commendable that so many communities have come forward and are opening their homes in support of the games.
"The World Games are an important event in the international sporting calendar and should be used as a spur to ensure that the rights and needs of people with disabilities are at the heart of politics in Ireland."