The former South African president Mr Nelson Mandela is likely to perform the official opening of the World Special Olympic Games at Croke Park, Dublin, in June.
Discussions about his involvement have taken place between the organising committee, Mr Mandela's office, and the South African embassy in Dublin.
A games spokesman would not confirm the approach yesterday, saying details of the opening ceremony were "still being worked on" and would be announced later this month. He also described a weekend press report about Mr Mandela's involvement as "premature".
But the former president's presence in Ireland the day before the ceremony - when he is to receive an honorary doctorate from NUI Galway - means he is strongly expected to officiate at the games.
Mr Mandela - who turns 85 in July - previously visited Ireland, when he received an honorary doctorate from Trinity College Dublin three years ago.
The latest honour, a law doctorate, will be presented in Galway on Friday, June 20th by the NUI Chancellor Dr Garret FitzGerald.
The games' opening ceremony takes place at Croke Park, on Saturday June 21st, with the organisers promising "a huge party" for the all-ticket attendance.
As in the Olympic Games, the opening of the Special Olympics will include a parade of athletes, the swearing of the Olympic oath, the raising of the movement's flag and the lighting of the flame.
The company in charge of the creative elements of the opening ceremony, Tyrone Productions, also promises a "visual extravaganza" encompassing the entire stadium.
Half a million people are expected to attend events during the eight days of the games, which end with a closing ceremony, also at Croke Park, on Sunday, June 29th.
