Who is Ian McDonald from Mercy and what is their importance?

Ian McDonald is Cam's father. Ian was clan chief before Cam. Ian was proud of his heritage and tried to instill that pride in his only son. However, Cam wanted to travel. In order to protect his son, and to keep his wife happy, Ian had Cam traced by a private detective in order to assure his safety in his travels. When Ian died in a car accident, Cam was called to come home to assume his role as chief. Cam was not happy with that decision, but because Cam loves his father and his heritage, he came home. Cam now feels trapped in that life and does not want to remain in Wheelock. It is this unhappiness that leave Cam susceptible to the charms of Mia, a young woman who comes to town at the same time Jamie arrives.