'Giant in every sense' - Minister for Agriculture pays tribute to the late Laois man Padraig Walshe

The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue has expressed his sadness at the passing of the former IFA President Padraig Walshe.

“A giant in every sense of the word, Padraig represented all sections of farming with commitment and distinction," said the Donegal Fianna Fáil TD.

Minister McConalogue outlined how the late Durrow man showed this through decades of service.

"Through Macra, the IFA, FBD and COPA, Padraig was a strong and vocal advocate for supporting the productive family farm model at home and abroad. He was a pioneering farmer in his own right who was instrumental in driving new and efficient farming practices across the country to help improve the sustainability, productivity and profitability of family farms.

"My thoughts and prayers are with Ella and all the Walshe family,” concluded the Minister.

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

Mr Walshe will be laid to rest on Bank Holiday Monday after his Requiem Mass in native Durrow.