Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

Yes. I thank the Taoiseach for the very positive response to the question. I raised this issue during the term of the previous Dáil. Should any awards system not be based on democratic and republican principles? One option would be to model it on the French scheme, whereby the authorities award citizens nationally and internationally but retain respect for those citizens and the democratic and republican tradition in France. I ask the Taoiseach to consider this approach.

Will the Taoiseach recognise the number of people who are investing valuable time and significant sums of money in the voluntary and community sector? I know of many individuals in and outside this country who have invested millions of euro to the benefit of disadvantaged children on the north side of Dublin. The Taoiseach will be aware of this and has mentioned it in his responses so far. Will he include such people, in addition to artists and sportspersons, in any honour system that is developed? It is important that we do not forget their valuable contribution.

A system of national recognition would not involve an award system such as that associated with conferring on an individual the freedom of a city or some other civic award. It would be directed towards people who do extraordinary voluntary and community work in addition to those involved in music and the arts. One should have an open mind on the matter. I urge all Members to support the proposal because, as the Taoiseach stated, we are talking about it since 1930.

See this speech in context