One of the best-known politicians in the midlands, Mr Michael Doherty, the man who brought former Taoiseach Albert Reynolds into politics, retired last week. Mr Reynolds, the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, and members of all political parties gathered in Longford to mark the event.
The 71-year-old former senator was Mr Reynolds's right-hand man throughout his political career. At the function, Mr Reynolds told Mr Doherty: "Thanks for bringing me into politics, and thanks for bringing me along in politics."
Mr Ahern said he and other Fianna Fail leaders had "always appreciated Mickey's solid assessment of the political scene and his enthusiasm for Fianna Fail's well-being and success".
Mr Doherty first was elected as a county councillor in 1967, and has invariably topped the poll in every local election since. It was a record that is "the envy of every politician in the country", said Mr Ahern.
An editorial in the Longford Leader said Mr Doherty was different from many politicians. "He is actually straight, honest and able to give and take in the battleground of politics."