Brake release handle and rod removal?

[Nickelcharlie]

I was working on an 86 replacing the long vent tube that connects the air conditioner box to the left lower corner vent and it would have been easier if I could have moved the pull rod on the brake release handle out of the way. How do you remove the brake release handle and rod combination from where it connects to the parking brake assembly? It looks to be push in retainer but I could not pull it out with my hand. Do I need to put a tool on and pry it out. Thanks for your help.