Shane Cassells (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

From my 24 years in politics at both local and national levels, I believe Senator Craughwell is correct that we do already have a system in place to honour people at local level. One of the first things I did as a counsellor 24 years ago, in 1999, was make Pierce Brosnan the first freeman of Navan. Then we made Seán Boylan the first freeman of Meath, so he could graze his sheep on the Hill of Tara. We even created a life-size bronze statue of the man, in Dunboyne, such was our dedication to him and all he has done for Meath. My point in citing these examples is that it is important to have an avenue to recognise the achievements of internationally renowned actors such as Pierce Brosnan, national sports heroes like Seán Boylan and all of their ilk when they achieve success nationally or internationally.It then is a question of looking at the mechanism for doing so. When one looks across the water, the honour and gravitas of having an honour system and what that does is notable. The system is well regarded by those who receive it and by society in general. I am struck by the proposal and, as has been said by Senator Craughwell, those of us who come through the local government system have had systems in place where we honour people. Other aspects of our society honour people in their way. The Catholic Church also honours people. In my home town, I have seen people such as John Howard received the Knight Commander of the Order of St. Gregory the Great, the highest order from the pontiff. There are aspects of society where people honour those who have distinguished themselves in their role. What is unique about this is that we would have an honouring of people across society, disciplines, codes of sport and business and leaders of societal life.

I like the concept of the presentation of the medal, with the initials of "G.U." to be worn. It brings a certain gravitas to the honour conferred on those persons selected. Regardless of the mechanisms that already exist, it is certainly worthy of debate and consideration and quite distinct from the peerages of our next door neighbour, such an award would very much be in tune with the republican ethos of our country and would recognise those who contribute to civil and sporting society. I thank Senator Keogan and her colleagues for bringing this towards the House.