asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs whether a decision has been reached in regard to the issue of commemorative stamps in the current year, and, if so, what anniversaries are being considered as the subjects of such issues; in particular, whether the fiftieth anniversary of the foundation of Sinn Féin and the invention of the Parsons turbine, the development of which was completed in Birr, have been considered suitable in this respect.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Commemorative Stamps.
A decision has not yet been reached in regard to the issue of commemorative stamps this year and it would be contrary to established practice to anticipate the Government's decision by indicating at this stage the subject or subjects being considered.
I may say, however, with regard to the Deputy's reference to the Parsons turbine, that the subject would not be suitable for a commemorative stamp this year. The centenary of the birth of its inventor, Charles Parsons, occurred last year and a suggestion that the event be marked by a special stamp could not then be entertained a the programme of commemorative stamps for 1954 had already been decided.