Derek Keating (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)

Question 9: To ask the Taoiseach if he will consider a national civil award similar to the British OBE, the French Presidential Award, Orde national du Mérite, the New Zealand Order of Merit or the USA Congressional Gold Medal, the purpose of such an award would be for those persons who in any field of endeavour have rendered service to the Republic or the nation through distinguished works or talents or performed outstanding deeds in the national interest; his views that we have much to be proud of in our country and there are many unrecognised patriots in society today; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there are only two State awards, the Scott Medal and the Fire Service Bravery Medal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28194/11]

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