Mary Moran (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I, too, welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Kehoe, to the House. I support Senator Quinn's Bill, which proposes the putting in place of a mechanism that should have been put in place many years ago. I agree that like many other countries, we should have in place a mechanism to recognise the outstanding contributions of people to this country. I have no doubt that there are many Senators who have made outstanding contributions to this country. Very often it is the unsung heroes that go without recognition and, sometimes, do not even seek it. I know of many such people within my own field of music, including Senator Ó Murchú, who does terrific work for Irish traditional music in this country. While not wishing to single out particular people, I know Senator Quinn has also done great work on behalf of this country.

I welcome that the Bill provides that people will be awarded this distinction on the sole authority of the appointing council, membership of which will not include political appointees. That is important. I agree that the use of the abbreviated title, GU, after a person's name warrants further consideration.

I congratulate Senator Quinn on bringing forth another excellent Bill. I am delighted that the Bill is not being opposed by Government. Leaving aside that there are a few issues with it that need to be ironed out, I wish it a swift passage through this House.