Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The former British Prime Minister, Tony Blair, honoured the Taoiseach in the British Parliament, rightly so, for his contribution to the Northern Ireland peace process. I attended that ceremony as a mark of respect for the work undertaken by all the Governments concerned. Does the Taoiseach have in mind a name or title for the honour, as distinct from titles granted to individuals? I hope political agreement can be reached on a panel to examine the matter. One does not want people to achieve such awards that they would be ten a penny every year. Therefore, a level of achievement, heroism or outstanding example would have to be established beyond which persons would be considered for an onóir náisiúnta or whatever it might be called. Does the Taoiseach have any numbers in mind or is he starting from a basic foundation, seeking agreement on a panel to consider the elements mentioned? After that it would be clearly seen to be apolitical, not a personality title, but rather an onóir náisiúnta to mark outstanding achievement in whatever field, by young or old, male or female.

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