Sport Ireland has today launched the inaugural National Disability in Sport Week, a landmark initiative celebrating the contribution of people with disabilities across every level of Irish sport — from participation to high-performance, from coaching to volunteering, and from community clubs to national organisations.

Running from December 1st – 7th, the week-long programme aims to spotlight inclusion, accessibility and leadership across the sector, while championing the athletes, coaches and advocates shaping a more equitable sporting landscape.

The launch took place at the Sport Ireland Campus in Abbotstown, where Paralympians Jason Smyth and Orla Comerford fresh from her outstanding gold-medal performance at the World Para Athletics Championships helped unveil the events and activities taking place nationwide.

“A Place for All of Us” – A Vision for Inclusion

Sport Ireland CEO Dr Úna May emphasised the power of sport to unite and uplift:

“Inclusion through sport means recognising the potential and talent in every individual, placing ability before disability. When we prioritise inclusion, we create environments where everyone is welcomed, everyone is valued, and everyone belongs. This is the power of sport: it connects us, it lifts us, and it reminds us that there is a place for all of us.”

Her words echo the ethos at the heart of Paralympics Ireland: ensuring that athletes with disabilities not only have access to sport, but have equal opportunity to excel, compete and lead.

Championing Ability, Leadership and Access

The week reflects the five core pillars of Sport Ireland’s Disability Inclusion in Sport Policy — Leadership, Capacity, Communication, Change and Access. Throughout the week, Sport Ireland and partner organisations will highlight inclusive programmes, spotlight local and national disability advocates, and inspire action across the sporting system.

Geraldine McTavish, Sport Ireland’s Disability in Sport Lead, noted:

“This week marks a nationwide celebration of inclusion, leadership, and opportunity across Irish sport. As we celebrate ability, we also commit to continued progress: strengthening partnerships, improving accessibility, and ensuring every person, regardless of ability, can participate, perform and enjoy sport.”

Her message aligns closely with the long-term ambitions of Paralympics Ireland to break down barriers and grow participation pathways that fuel future Paralympic performance.

Ministerial Commitment to Breaking Down Barriers

Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport Patrick O’Donovan reiterated the Government’s commitment to ensuring sport is accessible to all:

“Every person should have the opportunity to participate in sport and unfortunately there is an enduring participation gap with regard to persons living with a disability.

As Minister, I am committed to making sport more accessible by breaking down the barriers people with disabilities currently face.”

Programme for Disability in Sport Week 2025

Monday, December 1st – Leadership (Ceannasaíocht)

A sector-wide leadership event at the Sport Ireland Campus featuring the Sport Ireland Board, Disability Committee, NGB CEOs and LSP representatives. Hosted by journalist and activist Joanne O’Riordan, with contributions from Paralympic legends Jason Smyth, Deirdre Morgan, and double world champion Orla Comerford.

Tuesday, December 2nd – Communication (Cumarsáid)

A national webinar, “Coaching Athletes with a Disability”, running from 8–9pm and open to coaches across all sports.

Wednesday, December 3rd – Capacity (Cumas)

On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Geraldine McTavish will participate in the Active Disability Ireland Annual Conference in Co. Meath.

Thursday, December 4th – Access (Rochtain)

Spotlighting the work of Sport Inclusion Disability Officers, Local Sports Partnerships (LSPs), National Governing Bodies (NGBs) and funded organisations advancing accessibility.

Friday, December 5th – Change (Athrú)

A showcase of innovative disability inclusion projects and impact stories from across Ireland’s sporting landscape.

Saturday & Sunday, December 6th–7th – Active Participation (Rannpháirtí)

A weekend celebrating inclusive community sport, participation events and real-world examples of accessible sport in action.

National Disability in Sport Week represents a powerful statement: that sport in Ireland belongs to everyone. For the Paralympic community, it is also a moment to recognise the ongoing work of athletes, coaches, families, volunteers and organisations who champion inclusion every day.

From grassroots clubs to the world stage, this week reinforces a simple truth; sport is a fundamental right, and every person deserves the opportunity to participate, perform and thrive.

Paralympics Ireland looks forward to celebrating the achievements of our community throughout the week and continuing the collective push toward a more inclusive sporting future.