Taoiseach sends best wishes to Irish Olympic team

The Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, has sent his best wishes to Irish athletes competing in the Beijing Olympics.

The opening ceremony for the games is due to take place at the so-called 'Birds Nest' Stadium just after 8pm local time today (1pm Irish time).

Ireland will be represented in a record 12 events.

Mr Cowen has congratulated every member of Team Ireland for qualifying for the games and says he knows they will do their country proud.

Meanwhile, speaking from Beijing this morning, Sports Minister Martin Cullen said the atmosphere was building and the mood in the Irish camp was very good.