University College Dubin honours people who have made a contribution to Irish society.
RTÉ News reporter Charlie Bird was among the recipients of honorary degrees at University College Dublin as part of the UCD 150th anniversary celebrations.
Charlie Bird was awarded a Doctor of Law in recognition of his contribution to Irish society. Others receiving honorary degrees include dancer Michael Flatley, former European Commissioner David Byrne, and former US congressman Bruce Morrison.
Politicians, sports stars, journalists and philanthropists were among those who donned velvet robes and mortarboards today to receive honorary degrees from UCD.
Charlie Bird described the occasion as an honour for himself, RTÉ News, public service broadcasting and all journalists in Ireland.
Former Dublin football player and manager, Kevin Heffernan was also among the recipients. He said he was honoured to be among such a great cross-section of Irish society. Another recipient was dancer Michael Flatley who said he was grateful to receive such an award given that he barely made it out of high school. Charity worker Christina Noble who comes from The Liberties in Dublin says it means a lot to her. Editor of the Irish Voice Niall O'Dowd was also awarded an honary degree at the ceremony.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 3 November 2004. The reporter is Jennifer O'Connell.
