Cowen named 'Politician of Year'

Tánaiste and Taoiseach-designate Brian Cowen received another fillip last night after he was named MagillPolitician of the Year.

Mr Cowen, who will take over as Taoiseach after Bertie Ahern steps down on May 6th, saw off competition from Labour Party leader Eamon Gilmore and John Gormley, Minister for Environment and Local Government, for the title.

According to the judging panel, Mr Cowen was awarded the prize for his competent handling of matters in last year’s general election and for his work in the Department of Finance.

Mr Ahern, who has suffered an “annus tribunalis”, was named Survivor of the Year.

It was the Opposition that dominated the other categories, however. The award for Best Campaigning Politician went to Fine Gael TD Brian Hayes for his activism in seeking better autism services, TD of the Year was given to Labour’s Joan Burton and the Best MEP title was bestowed upon Gay Mitchell of Fine Gael.

Eugene Regan was named Senator of the Year ahead of senators Shane Ross and Eoghan Harris.

The Heckler of the Year was awarded to Willie O’Dea, the first time the prize has gone to a Government deputy.