Uber Ireland has announced a new partnership with Irish Para-athletes Róisín Ní Ríain and Tiarnán O’Donnell.
As part of the sponsorship, Uber provides direct financial assistance, transportation and meal services to the Irish para-athletes. This comprehensive support package is designed to ensure that the athletes have everything they need to focus on their training and performance as they prepare for competition this Summer.
The support for para-athletes is part of Uber’s broader efforts to use its technology to increase mobility and independence for people with disabilities.
The company launched Uber Access across Ireland last year, giving passengers the option to request a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV) on demand. The app also enables VoiceOver technology for passengers who are blind or have low vision and vibrating alerts to help riders who are deaf or hard of hearing.
The company is also investing in a €1 million programme across Europe, the Middle East and Africa to support athletes this summer as well as providing Uber Access drivers with additional support and training.
“Getting the preparation right before competition is so important,” said Róisín Ní Ríain, who recently took home five medals at the European Para Swimming Championships in Portugal, including gold in the 100m breaststroke.
“I just love competing and this summer will be extra special with the whole country getting behind us. This sponsorship will have a significant impact on my journey to France this year.”
Uber has also launched an ad campaign with Ní Ríain to celebrate her journey and highlight the power of providing accessible transportation for all.
“Having the support of Uber has helped so much in my preparation for the big events this summer,” said rower Tiarnán O’Donnell who won silver during his international debut at the 2024 World Rowing Cup II in Switzerland.
“Having the ability to order food to my doorstep after a long day of training has made my recovery so much easier. The ability to have accessible transport waiting for myself and the team when we arrive for training camps and competitions has taken so much of the stress of travelling away.”
“It’s fantastic to see the level of skilled athletes being nurtured and supported in Ireland on the world stage,” said Minister Anne Rabbitte, Minister of State at the Department of Health and at the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.
“I don’t doubt that this summer is going to be another wonderful one which will see our athletes to the fore in so many sports. Support from Uber ensures athletes can focus on their preparation and not be stressing about the likes of transportation and meal services, as well as knowing the inclusive technology Uber is a leader on, which is of such benefit to people with disabilities.”
“We are thrilled to support these exceptional young people with their training and preparation,” said Kieran Harte, General Manager of Uber Ireland. “These athletes embody the spirit of determination and excellence, and we are honoured to play a part in their journey. We are committed to inclusivity and driving better and more mobility options for all across Ireland.”
With a major base in Limerick through its Centre of Excellence, Uber directly hires over 400 people in the region while also supporting thousands of taxi and delivery drivers throughout Ireland.
Drivers using Uber in Ireland are fully licensed taxi drivers. The Uber app also offers passengers and drivers numerous safety functions to track their own trip, share it with trusted contacts and stay connected with support teams.
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