Ian's back like a whirlwind," said a DUP insider as Dr Paisley threw himself
into the thick of political activity this week. The Big Man doesn't do the
gentle breeze thing.
Neither age, nor medication, have mellowed him. He's clearly Northern
Ireland's bolshiest OAP. While Paisley has lost a few stones, he hasn't lost
his tongue. Those who have been alleging he is seriously ill, and about to
retire, were denounced in no uncertain terms.
Paisley chaired meetings of his party's MLAs and negotiating team on Tuesday
at Stormont. He's leading the DUP talks' delegation this week. He'll be in
Westminster next week for the return of Parliament and then it's over to
Leeds for the negotiations the week after that.
It would be a hectic schedule for a man two decades younger. Undoubtedly,
the voice is less booming and the movements are slower these days. But
that's to be expected in any 78-year-old.
What obviously angers Paisley are the constant false rumours that he has
prostate cancer. He is suffering from a heart-related condition but there is
no reason to believe he doesn't intend to be around as party leader for a
fair while yet.
And that is to be welcomed. With no disrespect to Peter, Nigel or the
others, Paisley is in a league of his own in terms of character and charm.
He brightens up election canvasses, dull TV debates, and any stuffy
occasion.
The ratings of BBC's Hearts and Minds climb dramatically when he's on.
Even those of us who certainly don't share his political or religious views
would miss him if he wasn't around.
When he does retire as DUP leader, or goes to meet his Maker, there will be
a huge gap in Northern Ireland political life. Let's hope it's not for a
long time yet.
