Ireland's Olympic medal winners will fly into Dublin to heroes' welcomes from the public tomorrow, but there are as yet no plans for a state reception.

Congratulations flooded in from across the political spectrum yesterday after Kenny Egan (26) was presented with his silver medal in Beijing.

Belfast's Paddy Barnes was also presented with his bronze medal, while Darren Sutherland was given his bronze on Saturday.

The Olympic Council of Ireland (OCI) is due to host a ceremony in the airport tomorrow evening to welcome them home.

But a government spokesperson said there were no official plans "as yet", although Sports Minister Martin Cullen is expected to welcome the athletes home at the airport.

"It is too early to say at this stage because we haven't engaged with the relevant parties," said the spokesperson.

Yesterday, the Irish president and the Taoiseach led the tributes to Egan, who collected Ireland's only silver medal.

Mary McAleese said: "The people of Ireland are uplifted by this outstanding achievement which continues a tradition of Irish Olympic boxing excellence dating back to 1952.

"This is such a proud moment for Kenny, his family, friends and supporters -- a moment in which all of us can gladly share."

Brian Cowen said: "Kenny fought a brave fight and gave everything in a wonderful bout of top-class boxing.

"Not only did Kenny do us proud in the ring but he was also an inspirational captain throughout the whole boxing tournament. Kenny and our two other medalists, Paddy Barnes and Darren Sutherland, can be truly be proud of their achievements."

Mr Cullen praised Egan on his medal win, while Fine Gael's sports spokeswoman Olivia Mitchell said the high performance training used by the boxing team should be used as a template.

Labour's Joan Burton praised the boxers' "remarkable success" in the face of "intense competition".

Egan bet €100 at 6/1 that he would win a medal before the Games.

Yesterday, Boylesports said they would treble the winnings, meaning he will pick up €1,900 -- to be given to his boxing club in Neilstown.