The Oban Times & West Highland Times

The passing of Duncan MacIntyre marks the end of an era. He was, when all is said and done, a man of the people. At times he took the brunt of the blame for council cuts and unpopular decisions. But he made hard decisions because he had studied his council papers and he knew there were no alternatives. If there was an alternative, an easier decision to be made, he would put it forward to the council chamber.

He would often win his argument because he was reasonable and rational in his debate, and in no small part due to his bloody-mindedness about Oban and the islands coming first.

He was tenacious in his politicking because he knew that with the hard decisions came an opportunity for the town to be at the forefront of council decision-making.

Above all Councillor MacIntyre was a diplomat, a wise representative, a friend.

The national political era we now live in is that of the popular politician who does nothing wrong. As soon as a foot is out of step, the back door is opened and out that politician goes, with a new, shiny one taking his or her place.

The difference? Perhaps it is that of conviction and confidence. Being everyone’s best friend was not on Councillor MacIntyre’s agenda. But he cared.

When Churchill died people said: ‘ The day of giants is gone forever’. Perhaps within Oban and Lorn, the likes of our giant, Duncan MacIntyre, will never be seen again. He will be sorely missed.