Tribute paid to MSP and Highland Councillor

The Highland Council has paid tribute to John Farquhar Munro, the long-serving councillor from Kintail, Lochalsh, who also served the Scottish Parliament as an MSP, between 1999-2011.

Mr Munro died at his home on Sunday after a period of ill health, compounded by fracturing a hip in a fall recently. He is survived by his wife Celia, daughter Shanea and son Neil.

A Gaelic speaker and strong supporter of the language, Mr Munro served as a local councillor from 1966 to 1999.  He first served with Ross and Cromarty County Council and he went on to hold office as Convener of Skye and Lochalsh District Council (1984-95); Chairman of Highland Regional Council’s Gaelic Committee (1978-82) and Chairman of The Highland Council’s Roads and Transport Committee (1995-99).

Council Leader Drew Hendry said: “On the occasions that I met John Farquhar, I found him to a passionate advocate for the Highlands.  He will be remembered for his huge contribution to the work of Ross and Cromarty County Council, Skye and Lochalsh District Council, Highland Regional Council and The Highland Council as well as in representing the interests of the Highlands in the Scottish Parliament.”

Depute Leader David Alston said: “I have campaigned along with John in the Black Isle and was always impressed by his ability to keep on going, street after street, door after door, engaging with everyone he met.  He had time for everyone and could outlast many a younger campaigner.”

Convener Jimmy Gray said: “John Farquhar was proud of his roots in the Highlands and always had a strong desire to do what was best for his community and the wider Highlands. He showed a willingness to work with others but was not afraid to take a stand on an issue when he felt this was needed.”