Sir, – While working as a parliamentary assistant in Dáil Éireann in 2013, I conducted research on the likelihood of a national awards system. I proposed it to be established by an independent commission with an all-party agreement.
Finn McRedmond is correct in her view: “if the British system is really so offensive, ought Ireland not conjure its own?” (“Why do we insist on feeling aggrieved that Britain would want to honour Irish citizens?”, Opinion, December 15th).
We have a long list of Irish and non-Irish who deserve national recognition for their immense contribution to our nation. There is Chuck Feeney, Senator George Mitchell and so on.
While there was at that time (2013) tentative agreement from Enda Kenny to ask the question to other party leaders, they did not reply. Overtures were made informally to establish a working group without success.
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Like many hundreds of thousands of Irish citizens, I worked in the UK. I was paid well, respected and valued. As McRedmond states: “A confident nation that fashions itself as a winner on the international stage would not be so worried.”
No other nation enjoys the access that the Irish have. Our business, sporting, cultural, engineering, academic, scientific and entertainment successes far outreach other countries.
Let’s be proud and let’s honour those who are deserving. Let’s inspire with a national award that will treasure those Irish who are honoured by other nations, especially the British. – Yours, etc,
THOMAS MORRIS GORMALLY,
Rathangan,
Co Kildare.