A Tribute to Professor Wall: A Legacy of Public Health Excellence
On the 13th January colleagues from across UCD, governance and industry organisations attended a reception in the UCD University Club to mark the retirement of Professor Patrick Wall, and celebrate his truly remarkable career and immeasurable impact on public health, veterinary medicine, and food safety. Speeches were delivered by UCD College of Health and Agricultural Sciences Principal Professor Cecily Kelleher, Associate Professor Mary Codd, Assistant Professor Fiona Lalor, and Head of the School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science Associate Professor James Matthews.
Professor Wall’s contributions span continents, disciplines, and generations of students and professionals who have had the privilege of learning from, and working with, him. He has been an inspiration. His engaging, humorous, and thought-provoking teaching style made complex topics accessible and enjoyable. Students recall his ability to blend academic rigour with real-world application, making every lecture a captivating experience. His contributions to the Master of Public Health and Master of Food Safety and Risk Assessment programmes at UCD have shaped the careers of countless public health professionals worldwide.
Professor Wall has worn many hats, as a veterinarian, food safety expert, public health physician, educator and mentor. As the first Chief Executive of the Food Safety Authority of Ireland, he played a pioneering role in shaping food safety regulations in Ireland. His leadership extended to the European Food Safety Authority, where he served as Chairperson, influencing food safety policy at an international level. His work with the WHO, European Union agencies, and national governments cemented his reputation as a global expert and thought leader in One Health, epidemiology, zoonoses and risk communication.
Pat’s mentorship has been life-changing for many. Colleagues and students describe him as an inspiration, a guiding light, always willing to advise, support and challenge his students. His dedication extended beyond academia, whether training army cadets in contact tracing, working with animals or his horses, championing food safety in global forums, or trekking through the Malaysian rainforest to engage with indigenous communities. His passion for public health knew no bounds.
Pat, as you embark on this new chapter, we celebrate your incredible legacy. Your wit, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to public health will be missed, but your impact will endure. We wish you endless adventures, well earned relaxation, and the continued pursuit of your many interests. From all your colleagues, students and friends, míle buiochas agus go n-éirí an bóthar leat I gconaí.
13th January 2025
