under the influence of father peter yorke (1864–1925), walsh became interested in many aspects of irish culture. tomás ó fiaich later commented that walsh was one of "... a generation of students [at maynooth] which was collectively able, multi-talented, committed and independent-minded", many of whom went on to achieve great distinction in many aspects of irish life. however, his participation in a controversy concerning 'compulsory irish' at the national university led to him been denied ordination at maynooth; the ceremony instead took place at all hallows college, dublin, on 24 june 1909. he was also forbidden to return to pursue postgraduate studies.