Hollywood star tops the bill on degree day

MOVIE star Gabriel Byrne was the headline act in a very different forum this week when he returned to his adopted home county to collect an honorary degree at NUI, Galway.The Hollywood star, who lived for many years outside Craughwell and whose family have strong Galway roots, was conferred with a Doctor of Arts as part of the winter graduation ceremony for more than 800 students.The actor said he regarded the honour as a seal of approval, and he was joined by a wide circle of family and friends, including his sister Breda O’Loughlin who runs a furniture business in Galway.NUIG President Dr Iognáid Ó Muircheartaigh said Byrne had given outstanding contribution to Irish and international film.“We in NUI Galway……