Lisa Clancy has been elected as the new President of Paralympics Ireland, following a vote at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting held in Dublin on May 15.

She succeeds Eimear Breathnach, who completed her term after leading the organisation through a period of growth and increased visibility for Paralympic sport in Ireland.

Clancy, who had served as Vice-President since 2021, brings extensive experience in sports governance and is known for her advocacy in equity, inclusion, and athlete-focused development. Her election comes as Paralympics Ireland begins preparations for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games.

“It is an incredible honour to be elected President of Paralympics Ireland,” Clancy said following her appointment. “I am deeply passionate about creating an environment where our Para athletes can thrive.”

In addition to Clancy’s election, two new Vice-Presidents were named: Lorcan Claffey, a board member since 2022, and Patrice Dockery, a former Paralympian bringing direct athlete experience to the leadership team.

Clancy is recognised for her role in launching the Women in Sport Leadership Programme and has been a prominent figure in the development of inclusive sports policy in Ireland.

She has lectured at UCD in Sports Management and served as Head of Corporate Communications at the HSE as well as Director of Communications at the GAA.

She is a long time friend and was one of the first supporters of Sport for Business when we launched 14 years ago.

Paralympics Ireland paid tribute to outgoing President Eimear Breathnach, whose term saw expanded athlete participation, stronger governance structures, and increased public engagement with Paralympic sport.

The new leadership team will now guide the organisation through the next phase of its development, with a focus on athlete success and strengthening the profile of Paralympic sport nationwide.

 

FURTHER READING FOR SPORT FOR BUSINESS MEMBERS

Check out Sport for Business coverage of Paralympic Sport

SPORT FOR BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE

Lisa is a great operator, and will be a powerful advocate at the highest level for Paralympian’s and for Paralympic Sport.

WHAT’S UP NEXT?

We will have an interview with Lisa Clancy in the Leadership Series of the Sport for Business Podcast in the coming weeks.

MEMBERSHIP AND EVENTS

Paralympics Ireland and Allianz are among the 300+ members of the Sport for Business community, which includes all of the leading sports and sponsors, as well as commercial and state agencies, individuals interested in our world, and an increasing number from beyond these shores taking a keen interest in Ireland.  

Find out more about becoming a member today.

Get the full benefit of a Sport for Business membership by joining us at one of our upcoming events, where sporting and business leadership come together.

Or sign up for our twice-daily bulletins to get a flavour of the material we cover.

Sign up for our News Bulletins here.