Harry Kehoe, former potato breeder at Teagasc Oak Park, Co Carlow, has been awarded an honorary doctorate of science by UCD to recognise his work as a plant breeder at Teagasc.

Kehoe joined Teagasc in 1960 and retired in 2003.

Part of his work at Oak Park included leading the breeding programme and he was seen as Oak Park’s most successful potato breeder, being held in the same regard as international potato breeders.

In more recent years he bred the variety Rooster which now accounts for 65% of all potatoes grown in Ireland

Transform technology

Speaking at the confering conference, UCD Professor of Crop Science Jimmy Burke, said "The development of Ireland’s Agriculture and Food industry is probably the classic example of how well educated graduates like Harry Kehoe can develop usable technology that can transform an industry and bring real benefits to the agri food industry, and the wider economy.

"Plant breeding has permeated Harry’s life and many in Ireland and abroad have benefitted from his knowledge and expertise. Harry’s achievements show that by striving for new knowledge, adopting good scientific methods, and by sticking to his research goals, he and his team delivered new knowledge that had impact."

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