Rabbite pays tribute to problem-solving Magner

LABOUR leader Pat Rabbitte paid tribute last night to the party’s former national organiser, Pat Magner, who drew the curtain on almost five decades in politics at a function in Leinster House.

He was highly regarded by politicians from all parties, and attendees at the function included Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny and PD chairman John Dardis.

Mr Magner, 65, stepped down as national organiser last month, a role he had held since the 1980s. He worked under four Labour leaders and was instrumental in the negotiations to form the 1982-87, 1992-94, and 1994-97 governments.