Offaly boxer features at Leinster House discussion on funding for sport
Tullamore's Gráinne Walsh stepped into the political arena this week when she represented Boxing Ireland at a pre-Budget discussion in Leinster House about funding for sport.
The local woman, who represented Ireland at the Olympics in Paris two years ago, will be out of action for the remainder of this year after undergoing surgery on a knee injury recently.
Gráinne joined fellow Paris Olympian Daniel Wiffin and Paris Paralympian Colin Judge in attending Wednesday's meeting with TDs and Senators under the auspices of the Federation of Irish Sport.
The event focused on sport's place at the heart of Ireland's culture, communities, and national identity, with the Federation of Irish Sport continuing to advocate for investment in a sector that delivers social, economic and health benefits.
Afterwards, Offaly TDs John Clendennen and Tony McCormack both said they were delighted to meet with one of the county's top sportspeople on the day.
"Gráinne is everything that is good about sport and is a fantastic role model for young people across Offaly and Ireland, especially for young women," said Deputy Tony McCormack in a Facebook post.
"Through her dedication, courage and resilience, she has achieved remarkable success on the national and international stage, bringing immense pride to her family, community and county.
"Her achievements in the ring are a testament to years of hard work and determination, and she continues to inspire the next generation to pursue their goals and never give up.
"Wishing Gráinne a full and speedy recovery from her latest injury. We look forward to seeing her back in the ring soon, doing what she does best," Tony McCormack concluded.
John Clendennen also shared that he was happy to have met with Gráinne and Olympic medallist Daniel Wiffen at the Leinster House gathering.
"Both are exceptional ambassadors for Irish sport and have brought immense pride to their communities and to the country through their success, humility and commitment.
"It was a pleasure to spend some time with Gráinne and Daniel and to acknowledge the enormous contribution they continue to make to Irish sport," said Deputy Clendennen.