Special Olympics Ireland represented at Leinster House ahead of 2026 Ireland Games

Special Olympics Ireland was ably represented at Leinster House yesterday, as CEO Karen Coventry, SOI Board member and founder of Sport for Business Rob Hartnett and Athlete Leader Ashwin Maliyakal met with Charlie McConalogue, Minister of State at the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, with special responsibility for Sport and Postal Policy.

We emphasised that in 2026, Special Olympics Ireland will host the largest inclusive sporting event in the country - the Special Olympics Ireland Games.

This will be a landmark moment for inclusion, celebration, and community, and we can’t wait to bring it to life - and we are grateful for the support of all stakeholders from Government to corporate partners and grassroots communities and clubs across Ireland.

We are grateful for the opportunity to advocate on behalf of our athletes and to strengthen partnerships that help ensure every individual — regardless of ability — has the chance to shine.