Called "one of Ireland's foremost scholars on Michael Davitt", Bernard O'Hara has published eight books and numerous articles on Irish history.  His list of publications includes many relating to the history and heritage of County Mayo.  His latest book is a concise biography of Michael Davitt, first published in 2006 by Mayo County in association with the Michael Davitt Memorial Association.

Bernard is the former Registrar of the Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT).  Prior to his  role as Registrar, he was Head of the School of Business and Humanities, a School with over 1,600 full-time and 1,000 part-time students.  He has lectured widely in Business Studies, history and heritage topics at the GMIT, the National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), and for various professional bodies, business organisations and local heritage groups.

In addition to his academic work, he has a long record of involvement with industrial, commercial, social, cultural and sporting organisations in the West of Ireland.  He served on the Council of Galway Chamber of Commerce and Industry for many years and was President during its bicentennial in 1991-92.  He was also President of the Galway Archaeological and Historical Society for three years.

Bernard and his wife Mary have five daughters and are natives of County Mayo, Ireland.