'Role model for all in agriculture' Macra pays tribute to Laois farm leader Padraig Walshe

Padraig Walshe was a role model for Irish farming by being a determined and staunch advocate for the agriculture sector across five decades, according to Macra.

Laois man and Macra President John Keane spoke on behalf of the organisation of which Mr Walshe himself led in the 1980s. Mr Keane said the Macra community is greatly saddened to hear of their former leader's untimely passing 

"On behalf of all Macra members both past and present, I want to send our sincere condolences to Padraig's family and friends at this very sad time. This is a huge shock for those close to Padraig and our thoughts are with all those that mourn his loss.

"Padraig was Macra na Feirme President from 1987-1989 and served the organisation with great distinction. 

"Padraig will be greatly missed by all in the farming community. Padraig was a role model for all in agriculture, he was both an excellent farmer and a determined and staunch advocate for the agriculture sector across five decades," he said.

Mr Keane, who is from Errill, also spoke about the close link he had to Mr Walshe through the county connection. 

"Padraig has long been a great friend of all in Macra, as a fellow Laois man he was always as constant presence and a fountain of sound advice through out my time in Macra and as President," he said.

The Macra President concluded by outlining the difference his predecessor has made through his leadership and the roles he filled.

IN PICTURES: A Laois man at the pinnacle of Irish farming - the late IFA President Padraig Walshe

"Padraig has been at the forefront of Irish farming life for over five decades from Macra na Feirme President in 1987 to IFA President in 2006 and then as COPA President in 2009 he has led our industry through incredible change," he said.

Mr Walsh is survived by his wife Ella, and his children Julianne, Catherine, Elma and Pat.