TRIBUTES have been paid to a long-serving Argyll and Bute councillor who has died “suddenly”.
The council announced the death of Scottish Liberal Democrats councillor Robin Currie, who served the wards of Kintyre and the Islands, on Thursday.
He previously served as council leader from September 2020 until last month and was most recently the policy lead for economic development, islands and rural communities and housing.
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SNP councillor Jim Lynch was among those to pay tribute, saying: “I am shocked and extremely saddened by Robin’s passing. It feels almost impossible to imagine the council without him.
“He was devoted to Islay, and his huge wealth of local government experience served Argyll and Bute well in so many different ways.
“He was an inspiration in standing up for the interests of the area, of our islands and of different aspects of life that make Argyll and Bute the place he loved and believed in.
“He wanted the best for Argyll and Bute, and worked tirelessly to achieve that. Whatever challenges he took on in the interest of our communities, he could always be relied on to bring welcome humour to situations.
“For many reasons, Argyll and Bute owes Robin Currie heartfelt thanks. Robin – we thank you, for everything, and we’ll miss you.”
Elsewhere, SNP MSP for Argyll and Bute Jenni Minto said his absence from Islay “will be deeply felt across the community”.
The area’s MP Brendan O’Hara added: “Really shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of deputy leader of councillor Robin Currie.
“Robin served his beloved Islay community for many, many years, most recently as the member for Kintyre and the Islands.
“Deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
Elsewhere, Scottish LibDem leader Alex Cole-Hamilton (above) said it was “devastating” to hear the news.
“He was a liberal and a proud islander who always sought to do what was right and get things done for his community,” he said.
“Robin’s decades of public service showed the mark of his character and he will be missed.”
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