Ministers Congratulate Olympic And Paralympic Athletes

A number of athletes from Northern Ireland who competed at the 2016 Rio Olympic and Paralympic Games have been congratulated by Ministers at Stormont.

Among the athletes were Bethany Firth who won three gold medals and a silver medal for swimming at the Games, Michael McKillop and Jason Smyth who both retained their gold medals in athletics from London 2012.

Sports Minister Paul Givan said: "I am immensely proud that athletes from Northern Ireland competed in the 2016 Rio Olympic and Paralympic Games, which are the very highest level of international competition and one of the most celebrated world- wide sporting events.

"It was an outstanding achievement for all of our athletes to have competed at such a prestigious event."

Junior Minister Alastair Ross said: "Sport has a very positive impact on our lives, physically and mentally, as participants, spectators and fans. Our Olympic and Paralympic athletes from Northern Ireland are great role models and ambassadors, encouraging and inspiring others to take part and get involved.

"I congratulate all of Northern Ireland's Olympic and Paralympic athletes on their magnificent achievements, and wish them all continued success and enjoyment of their sports long into the future."

(CD)