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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 14 Feb 1962

Vol. 193 No. 1

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Decimal Currency System.

61.

asked the Minister for Finance whether the Government have reached a decision in respect of the introduction of the decimal currency system; and if he will make a statement on the Government's intentions in the matter.

62.

Mr. Ryan

asked the Minister for Finance if he proposes to introduce a system of decimal coinage and metric measurements; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

63.

Mr. Costello

asked the Minister for Finance whether it is proposed to alter our present system of coinage or adopt the metric system.

I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 61, 62 and 63 together.

The Government have decided in principle that a decimal system of currency should be adopted and I am setting up a committee, comprising representatives of the Central Bank and Government Departments, to advise on the appropriate time for making the change and on the steps necessary to effect it in the most economical way.

No decision has been taken in regard to the adoption of the metric system of weights and measures, but the matter is being kept under review by the Minister for Industry and Commerce.

Would the Minister say whether it is likely that we shall have the implementation of the recommendation of the committee for the adoption of a decimal currency system if the British decide to remain on the present currency system or is our change from the present system to a decimal currency system dependent in any way on the decision of our next-door-neighbour?

In setting up this committee that consideration is left out. That is all I can say at the moment. They will go ahead with preparations for the setting up of a decimal system of coinage here and when I say "in the most economical way" it refers to the most economical way for those concerned with cash registers etc.

If the British adopt the decimal system of currency and that currency circulates in the Six Counties we shall hardly be so tenacious of British tradition as to maintain their system of coinage after they have abandoned it themselves?

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