"While we would always strive to achieve an increase in our allocation we are pleased, that in the context of a reduction in the Sports Budget this year our share has remained unchanged; that is to be welcomed," said Paralympics Ireland chief executive Liam Harbison.

"We must ensure we continue to deliver world class services and supports to Ireland's Paralympic athletes and this investment from the Irish Sports Council enables us continue to do so.

"Of the record 67 medals achieved last year across a multitude of sports, after boxing with 20, Irish Paralympic athletes accounted for the next highest return with 15 of those medals.

"This investment is key to sustaining such success on the world stage in 2014, and enabling our athletes to adequately prepare for and compete in key championships this summer, with 2016 Paralympic qualification goals in mind."

Ireland's middle distance specialist Michael McKillop is one of nine Paralympians to receive the full €40,000 of individual funding ©Getty Images



Nine of the 22 Paralympic athletes receiving the individual funding - part of the Carding Scheme which sees €1.6 million (£1.3 million/$2.2 million) invested in 85 athletes from 15 sports across both Olympic and Paralympic disciplines - have been awarded the maximum amount of funding of €40,000 (£34,000/$52,000) for 2014.

These athletes, who are classed as podium potentials, include sprinter Jason Smyth, winner of the 100 metre and 200m T13 at both the Beijing 2008 and London 2012 Paralympic Games; Michael McKillop, winner of the 800m T37 at both the Beijing and London Games, as well as the 1500m T37 at London 2012; and London 2012 shot put bronze medallist Orla Barry.

Also included are swimmers Elle Keane, Darragh McDonald, Laurence McGivern and James Scully, and cyclists Colin Lynch and Mark Rohan.

Following the announcement, Kieran Mulvey, chairman of the Irish Sports Council said: "I want to commend every athlete who has qualified for funding in 2014, they have earned the support through exceptional performances.

"The Council remains committed to direct athlete support as an important element of the overall investment strategy for high performance sport."

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