10,000 people from all over the world are expected to converge on Cologne for the Gay Games which begin tomorrow. The Irish Ambassador to Germany is hosting a reception for the Irish participants tomorrow afternoon.

Minister for Arts and Culture and Sport Mary Hanafin TD.  has written to Team Ireland giving her good wishes and support to the team. Maybe  the influence of her colleague Dermot Ahern at work.

The Gay Games Blog has a copy of the letter.

I know we all appreciate the important role that sport plays in our society in promoting healthy lifestyles, creating a sense of identity and belonging and bringing people together. Active participation in sport and physical recreation contributes enormously to the physical and mental well being of the individual and by extension, of the whole community.

Could I suggest maybe an official reception for our medallists on their return?

Good luck to everyone in Team Ireland taking part in next week ( I believe some of Cork’s finest footballers are due to be playing a team of German policewomen in the Soccer tournament amongst others!)