Understand
Tributes paid to Manchester political 'giant' Pat Karney following his death at 78
Overview
Pat Karney, a long-serving Labour councillor who represented Harpurhey since 1979 and served as Manchester City Council's city centre spokesman, has died at the age of 78 following treatment for cancer. Tributes have been led by political figures including Andy Burnham, who praised him as a tireless champion for Manchester. Karney was widely recognised for his role in city centre regeneration following the 1996 IRA bombing, his support for gay rights and opposition to Section 28, and his promotion of Manchester's Irish heritage.
Key points
- Pat Karney has died at the age of 78 after receiving cancer treatment at The Christie hospital.
- He represented Harpurhey as a Labour councillor since 1979 and was a prominent Manchester City Council spokesman.
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham paid tribute, describing him as a tireless champion who loved Manchester deeply.
- Karney played a key role in the regeneration of Manchester city centre after the 1996 IRA bombing.
- He was a long-standing advocate for gay rights and opposed Section 28.
- Manchester City Council announced that a book of condolence would be opened at Central Library and online.