The centre will be used by the researchers, specialists and advisers involved in the delivery of the Teagasc Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Programme, and in the delivery of part of the Teagasc Education programme. It will specifically support the research programme on grassland, animal breeding and health and farming systems.

Present for the opening of the centre today (Friday) were EU Commissioners Phil Hogan and Carlos Moedas and Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney.

Speaking at the event, Hogan said the late Paddy O'Keeffe "really is one of the legends of Irish agriculture. His passion for innovation, for change, for development, for productivity and ultimately for the sustainability of Irish agriculture and the rural way of life are values more important today than ever before, as we enter a new era of Irish, and indeed European, agriculture."

Minister Simon Coveney said the centre is "a fitting tribute" to a man who spent his life seeking out new knowledge that would ultimately help improve the agri-foodsector in Ireland.

"O'Keeffe's commitment to education, research and the dissemination of information to the farming community remained constant over the decades," he said.

The minister added that the opening of the centre signifies Ireland's intention to become "a world leader in dairy innovation".

Teagasc Chairman, Dr Noel Cawley thanked FBD Trust for their generous financial support which facilitated the establishment of the Paddy O’Keeffe Innovation Centre as well as acknowledging the funding contribution from the Department of Agriculture towards the centre.

As well as holding the position of editor of the Irish Farmers Journal for 37 years, during which time he oversaw circulation figures rise from 2,000 copies per week to 70,000 copies per week, O'Keeffe was also instrumental in the establishment of FBD Insurance Company and was its chairman for over 20 years.