ALEX Salmond has paid tribute to Donald Gorrie for his substantial contribution as a founding member of the Scottish Parliament, following the death of the former LibDem MSP.
Mr Gorrie, who was 79, made his mark at the Parliament during its early days. He died following a lengthy illness.
He was known as fiercely critical of architect Enric Miralles' controversial, over-budget Holyrood building and his party's coalition with Labour. He also called for tougher alcohol laws.
Mr Salmond said: "It is sad to hear of Donald's passing and my sympathies go out to his family and friends. He was a highly and widely respected member of the Scottish Parliament who made a substantial contribution in its early days.
"He was a man of independent mind and spirit who was willing to champion minority causes. He will be sadly missed."
Mr Gorrie began in politics as an Edinburgh City councillor in 1991. He later represented Edinburgh West at Westminster before serving as MSP for Central Scotland until 2007, when he stood down from the Scottish Parliament.
Described by his peers as a "true gentleman", Mr Gorrie was said to have used his political career to battle for fairness, opportunity and justice.
Scottish LibDem leader Willie Rennie said: "With a liberal backbone made of steel Donald Gorrie dedicated his life to challenging the establishment.
"A highly effective councillor and parliamentarian, he revelled in the battle for fairness, opportunity and justice.
"He was never afraid to be a lone voice and his boundless energy was evident throughout his 36 years of public service.
"The Liberal Democrats will forever be grateful for the life of Donald Gorrie. We will miss him. Our thoughts are with his wife Astrid and his family."
Johann Lamont MSP, Scottish Labour Leader, said: "We didn't always agree but I admired his determination to stick to the principles which led him into public life.
"He will be missed and my thoughts are with his family and loved ones."
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