Recognised as an outstanding grassland farmer, Padraig was also an outstanding representative of Irish farming interests. He was president of Macra na Feirme from 1987 to 1989. Before taking on the role of IFA president from 2006 to 2010, he was awarded the Creamery Milk Supplier of the Year accolade for his outstanding grassland management practices.
After his time as IFA leader, he was elected president of the European farmer representative body, COPA. The Durrow, county Laois-based milk producer was a Nuffield Scholar and his thesis on the future of Irish dairy is widely referenced. The Irish Grassland Association recognised Padraig Walshe’s talents by appointing him as its president in 1996. Fully committed to the cooperative movement Padraig served for many years on the council and area committees of Tirlán.
In his later years, Padraig was chairman of Farmer Business Developments and oversaw the very successful expansion of the holding company into hotel and leisure facilities and investment property in Ireland and abroad.
We extend our deepest sympathies to Padraig’s wife, Ella, his daughters Julieanne, Catherine and Elma and his son, Pat, as well as the wider Walshe family.