Taoiseach And Ministers Congratulate O'Donovan Brothers On Olympic Medals

The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport and the Minister of State for Tourism and Sport

have congratulated Paul and Gary O'Donovan on winning Ireland's first ever Olympic silver medal in rowing.

The brothers won their medals in the men's lightweight double sculls at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games on Friday, 12 August.

Minister Shane Ross, said: "Paul and Gary rowed a magnificent race and I am delighted they got their rewards with a silver medal. The brothers have been outstanding all week, it is a wonderful achievement for the young pair to be bringing home an Olympic medal from the Rio Games. After a tough start, this is real shot in the arm for Team Ireland and while this is the first rowing medal and our first medal of these games, hopefully there is more to come."

Minister Patrick O'Donovan, added: "I am delighted for the O'Donovan brothers, they rowed an outstanding race against the best in the world, and we – along with supporters across Ireland are very proud of their performance in their first Olympic Games. Their family and friends, and Skibbereen Rowing Club must be immensely proud to see them winning Ireland's first Olympic rowing medal and the first for Ireland at these games. This really is a magnificent achievement and I am sure there is more to come. It is a great day for the Ireland's rowing Community, for West Cork and for Ireland."

Also offering his congratulations, Taoiseach Enda Kenny, said: "I want to congratulate Paul and Gary O'Donovan on winning Ireland's first medal at the 2016 Olympics in Rio.

"It is a wonderful achievement for them personally, their home club and Irish rowing.

"The entire Country has enjoyed watching Paul and Gary both on and off the water. Their exceptional athleticism and good humour has been uplifting. I want to thank them for all the sacrifice and effort they have made to achieve success for Ireland on the world stage."

(MH/CD)