Michael O'Flynn conferred with honorary doctorate from UCC

Cork property developer conferred with honorary doctorate in economic science for his services to business and philanthropy

Michael O’Flynn, right, who was conferred with an honorary doctorate in economic science, with Professor John O'Halloran, president of UCC. Picture: Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision

Property developer Michael O’Flynn was conferred with an honorary doctorate by University College Cork (UCC) for his services to business and philanthropy.

The founder, chairman and chief executive of the O’Flynn Group has been responsible for landmark commercial and residential developments across Ireland and the UK, including the former army barracks in Ballincollig, the Elysian in Cork city, EastGate in Little Island, the Point Campus student development in Dublin and numerous housing estates, including Mount Oval in Rochestown.

The Cork man has grown the property development company he founded with his brother John in 1978 from a small family-owned construction firm to an international organisation. The honorary doctorate also recognises Mr O’Flynn’s years of philanthropic contribution to Cork and beyond.

UCC president Professor John O’Halloran said: “Michael O’Flynn has left an indelible mark on our city and country. From modernising Cork’s skyline with iconic structures such as the Elysian, to preserving our history through his fundraising for the restoration our own Honan Chapel, Michael’s work is all around us.

“The thousands employed through his projects are not alone in benefitting from Michael’s vision and drive, as his philanthropic efforts have assisted so many. The historic first staging of a soccer match in Páirc Uí Chaoimh in aid of the family of the late Liam Miller was but one standout example of Michael’s determination and benevolence,” he said.

Mr O’Flynn said: “An honorary doctorate is not a recognition I could ever have imagined receiving. Receiving it is a privilege that I share with all of the people who have contributed to my journey, those who supported me in business, the O’Flynn Group team and, of course, my family.

“There is no doubt that the global political situation is presenting this generation with challenges that my generation did not face. However, every generation has its challenges. 

"Today’s new graduates here in UCC have been given the talent, the education and the opportunities that many will only ever dream of. Importantly, they have the power to bring about real positive change.”

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