Sharon Keogan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for not opposing the Bill. I do not believe the Bill we have put down is anything near what it should be but nevertheless, as a tribute to Feargal Quinn it was worth resurrecting it. Ireland has evolved so much over the last 20 to 30 years and we are ready for that conversation now. These are not awards that can be given at the Volunteer Ireland Awards or any of the other events mentioned. These are exceptional and extraordinary contributions that are made to our society, and they could be given to people like Jocelyn Bell Burnell, who is an astrophysicist, for her contribution to astronomy. It could be people like Sonia O'Sullivan, Fr. Peter McVerry, Katie Taylor or Garry Hynes with her contribution to the arts. These are people who have given extraordinary time and effort over many years to their roles, whether it be in business, the arts, working with migrant groups or working with minority groups.

I thank the Minister of State. I wanted to lock the door today and not let Senator McDowell in.