Dáil barman calls time

THE longest-serving barman in the Dáil was praised for his wit, political knowledge and storytelling by TDs yesterday ahead of his retirement.

Wicklow man Denis Reid or “Diny” said Charles Haughey was his favourite Taoiseach because he arranged a week's extra pay at Christmas for staff in the bar and restaurant.

Having worked for 41 years in the Dáil bar, 65-year-old Mr Reid retires next month.

Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin said he was “a man of great wit”.