TO BE fair, some TDs are trying to adhere to the call by Ceann Comhairle Seán Barrett for more decorum in the House. Cork South Central’s Jerry Buttimer, noted wayward child of the backbenches, has toned down his interruptions considerably. In fact, he’s one of the best boys in class now and has been heard boasting about how he has turned over a new leaf.

Butsy is a new man – he is also boasting about how lovely his Christmas cakes have turned out. He’ll be putting on the marzipan and icing them this weekend. “I’ve posted photos of them on my Facebook page,” he tells us.