andMr. Timmons asked the Taoiseach if a decision has been taken regarding the establishment of an honours list; and, if so, if he will state the decision.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Honours List.
2.
This matter is not under consideration.
Does the Taoiseach not agree that the time has now come when the State ought to be in a position to honour people of distinction whether that distinction has been acquired within the State or outside it rather than depend on the National University and the University of Dublin to give such degrees?
I do not know whether the time has come but I suppose there are more urgent matters to be attended to.
I am well aware of that. Is the Taoiseach not aware that certain suggestions have been made along these lines, not so much at present but over a number of years past, and that all that appeared to prevent it was an absence of negotiation between political parties as far as agreement amongst them was concerned, agreement that might be obtained in certain circumstances?
As the Leader of the Opposition has stated, this matter was the subject of some discussion and consideration some years ago but no agreement was reached on any proposals that were discussed.