Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 99: To ask the Taoiseach if he will seek cross-party agreement in introducing an honours system in this country. [10496/09]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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The Deputy may recall that my predecessor replied to questions on this subject from him and other Deputies on 20 November 2007 and from him on 5 December 2007. In his replies, he said it had always been his view that a national honours system would require all-party agreement if it were to proceed. He had written to the main Opposition party leaders in 1999 but it was evident that cross-party support for the introduction of such a scheme did not exist at the time. He wrote to Opposition party leaders again in October 2007 to inquire if their parties would be prepared to enter into discussions on the matter. A formal response to the letter of October 2007 has not been received in one case. I share my predecessor's view that a national honours system would require all-party support. If such support is forthcoming, I would be amenable to initiating the necessary discussions.