TRIBUTES have been paid to a "formidable" former SDLP councillor following his death on Monday.
Jim McCart, who was in his nineties, lived in Warrenpoint and was a former chairman of Newry and Mourne District Council and the SDLP Association of Councillors.
SDLP South Down assembly member Sinead Bradley described the father-of-five as a "formidable councillor and a trusted friend".
"He was dedicated to public service and his steely determination and straight-talking demeanour ensured common sense and decency would always win the day on his watch," she said.
"Like many of his time, Jim witnessed some of the darkest times in Northern Ireland and he bravely stood up to those who sanctioned or promoted violence in any form.
"He lived a long, full, life and he most definitely lived it well. He will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him. My thoughts and prayers and those of the SDLP are with Jim's family and friends at this difficult and sad time".
Requiem Mass for Mr McCart will be celebrated at 10.30am today at St Peter's Church in Warrenpoint, with interment afterwards in Warrenpoint Municipal Cemetery.
