Michael Finucane (Fine Gael)

—and the then Taoiseach was receptive. Deputy Quinn blew me out of the water on the matter saying that we were aping an English system. There are many examples of honours systems within Europe. For example, the Legion of Honour in France dates back to the time of Napoleon. It is time we had an honours system in this country. I saw it referred to recently when Richard Harris died. People said it was unfortunate he could not be recognised in his country. Will the Leader bring the matter to the attention of the Taoiseach? We should move in a positive direction and recognise the era in which we live.