asked the Minister for Finance his intentions, if any, in regard to having the coinage re-designed in respect of pattern, dimension and denomination; and whether he will consult An Chomhairle Ealaíon on how best to secure a satisfactory new coinage from the aesthetic point of view.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Coinage Design.
8.
(Clare): As the Minister proposes to announce during his speech on the Second Stage of the Finance Bill in the Seanad today, he has requested the Central Bank to undertake detailed studies, in consultation with the Department of Finance, into the introduction of a 20p or 25p coin, the possible introduction at a later date of a £1 coin and, in the longer term, changing the existing cupro-nickel coins — that is the 5p, 10p and 50p pieces — to provide a relatively less heavy coinage. Also, the views of representative bodies closely concerned with these matters will be sought by the Department of Finance before firm proposals for changes in the coinage are put forward for Government approval and presentation to the Dáil and Seanad.
The Minister proposes to consult An Chomhairle Ealaíon on the design aspect.
While I am delighted to hear that for once An Chomhairle Ealaíon will be brought into this matter, which was a clear case for its intervention, what is the objection to consulting them straight away? It is not something they can give their views on or get advice about overnight. If, as the Minister says, his plans are to some extent long term ones, what is the objection to asking them for their advice straight away, at least on the aesthetic dimensions of the coinage?
(Clare): I do not see any objection. I will convey that to the Minister concerned.
In regard to the size of the existing set of coins, would the Minister think there is something to be said for bringing forward this part of the plans to something more proximate than the "longer term", inasmuch as the Irish 10p piece is the same size, for example, as the German five mark piece, but in order to buy a German five mark piece you would want 13 of our 10p gems and one's pocket is literally torn to pieces by the weight of almost worthless coinage clashing around in it. Would the Minister think that there is a strong case for bringing this forward to the near term and not into the long term?
(Clare): Yes, I mentioned in my reply relatively less heavy coinage which would also mean, I presume, that a change of size will be examined. I agree with the Deputy that the coins are far too heavy.
In the interim, because a large part of my concern with this over the years has been that it is a most conspicuous, easily accessible example of our mindless copying of the English, could the Minister give us a positive assurance today that we will not get a 20p piece identical in every way except pattern with the English 20p piece, which recently was issued?
(Clare): Recent issues in the UK should not have any bearing on what we would do——
Hear, hear.
(Clare):——and will not have any bearing. I can be as firm as that.
(Interruptions.)
Deputy Kelly, I have allowed you five supplementaries. You cannot go on like that. We would be having a Deputy Kelly hour.
Most of my colleagues are not here and I think we should get a little latitude. Since we seem to be in agreement about this, I ask the Minister if there would be any greater reason why we should copy the English 20p piece rather than the French 20-centime piece?
(Clare): No, not at all, if for no other reason than the break in the one-to-one parity with Britain. It is not important that we are the same in any form.
That is the first time I have heard that admitted from the Minister's side of the House.