Securing Success Together details the organisation's roadmap to achieving that objective, with the research, build, and pilot phase leading up to its implementation in 2017.

After a consultation process with "key agencies and individuals within Irish Paralympic sport", the need for a "coordinated and managed approach to athlete development was identified".

Paralympics Ireland will now implement a research-led talent identification model, and create a "clear pathway" to get athletes from participating in a sport, to standing on a podium.

It is hoped the rewards will start to be reaped at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics and beyond.

Launching the strategy today at Bewley's Hotel Ballsbridge in Dublin, Paralympics Ireland chief executive Liam Harbison, said: "Paralympic sport globally faces a new reality on the back of the huge success of London 2012.

"The level of athlete performance continues to break new ground, making it essential that Paralympics Ireland moves to develop a talent ID model and performance pathway to secure long term success."

From left, Ireland cerebral palsy football team captain Luke Evans, swimmer Ellen Keane and runner Michael McKillop are backing the plan ©Pat Murphy/Sportsfile



Leading Irish Paralympians including double gold medallist at 800 metres and 1,500m, Michael McKillop, and double swimming world championship bronze medallist Ellen Keane, were on hand to add their support to the plan.

The strategy aims to boost awareness of Paralympic sport in Ireland through a series of "communications activities".

Driving "greater investment from state agencies, and commercial partners" is also a goal.

"I would like to commend Paralympics Ireland for their continuous drive to advance the Paralympic Movement and for the publication of a clear, concise, and focused strategy," said Irish Sports Council chief executive, John Treacy.

"The Irish Sports Council has been a long term partner of Paralympics Ireland and is committed to supporting this strategic plan not only in relation to Rio, but beyond through the talent ID and development model."

Liam Moggan of Coaching Ireland, Rob Hartnett of Sport for Business, and Mick O'Keeffe of Pembroke Communications spoke at today's event.

Ireland won 16 medals at the London 2012 Paralympic Games, with eight gold, three silver and five bronze.

To read the Securing Success Together plan, click here.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories
May 2014: Paralympics Ireland President expresses disgust at IPC decision to drop athletics events for Rio 2016
December 2013: Paralympics Ireland to embark on three year strategic planning ahead of Rio 2016
October 2013: Murray appointed to boost performance at Paralympics Ireland