Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 89: To ask the Taoiseach the position regarding a system for honouring Irish citizens for doing voluntary and community work. [14019/07]

Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)
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A National Presidential Citizens Awards system was one of the recommendations contained in the Report of the Taskforce on Active Citizenship which I was pleased to launch on 28 March last. The Report was prepared following extensive consultation and research carried out by the Taskforce since its establishment in April 2006. Copies of the Report have been placed in the Oireachtas Library.

The Taskforce proposes the introduction of National Presidential Citizens Awards to recognise outstanding contributions to civic and community life. It is recommended that the awards be presented to a limited number of people selected by an independent process based on nominations by members of the public. Presentation of the Awards could act as a focal point for the Active Citizenship Week also proposed by the Taskforce.

The Government has accepted the recommendations of the Taskforce in principle and also agreed to establish a non-statutory Active Citizenship Office as proposed in the Report. This cross-departmental office will develop a three-year implementation plan for the recommendations in the report, in consultation with relevant stakeholders. An Implementation Steering Group, to be chaired by Mary Davis, will be established to oversee the work of the office.