THE FORMER FIANNA Fáil senator Bernard McGlinchey has died. He was 80.

A stalwart of the Seanad between 1961 and 1983, McGlinchey died last night at his home in Donegal. He had also served as a councillor in Donegal for over 50 years.

A former member of the North Western Health Board, McGlinchey stood for election to the Dáil in the Donegal North-East constituency in the 1973, ’81, and ’82 general elections as well as in the Donegal constituency in 1977 but was unsuccessful on each occasion.

He also founded the Golden Grill nightclub in his native Letterkenny and holds the record for the longest speech in the Seanad having once debated an issue for more than 12 hours.

Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin said: “Bernard’s contribution to Fianna Fáil was immense and his role in guiding Fianna Fáil in Donegal North East over many years and during successive elections was truly skilled and inspirational.

“He was towering figure within our party in Donegal for decades, someone who made a real impact and difference and someone who will be missed. I know he will also be deeply missed in Donegal and across the country.”