Athletes from the football, table tennis, canoeing, shooting and athletics squads were in attendance at the event along with Irish Olympic sailing silver medallist, Annalise Murphy.

The group will be hoping to do better than their impressive performance at London 2012, where they achieved eight gold medals to record the best-ever performance of an Irish Paralympic team.

"The Government is fully committed and supportive of the team and Paralympics Ireland," O’Donovan said.

"I would particularly like to express gratitude to the families of the athletes; the parents, partners, siblings and children for the unwavering support you have given to them. 

"What you have already achieved is massive and your country is hugely proud of you.

"Today is your day, we wish you well and every success. 

"The Government is immensely proud of what you are about to embark on."

Due to the decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to uphold the International Paralympic Committee’s suspension of Russia from the Paralympic Games - due to the country's doping scandal - Ireland has been awarded an extra slot in cycling.

This means tandem pair Peter Ryan and Marcin Mizgajski will join the squad, to compete in the men’s B tandem time trial and the men’s B tandem road race.

Elsewhere, there has been one change to the football team, with Cork’s Peter Cotter coming in to replace Jordan Walker. 

Luke Evans, Ireland's football captain, told UTV Ireland that there is "a very united spirit within the team ahead of the Games".

Ireland are preparing for the men's seven-a-side tournament for players with cerebral palsy. 

“Everyone is supporting each other, you've not only an interest in your own sport," Evans said.

"You've an interest in everyone and you’re willing them on and you're hoping that you perform and that they do their best.

"I'm looking forward to getting over there and not only good performances in football but across the board in all the different sports."