——I assume the Deputy has in mind a redesign. I have no immediate plans in this regard but the matter is being kept under review.

I referred earlier to the proposed 20p. coin. I announced on 31 August last that the Government had approved in principle the introduction of this coin, subject to the approval of the Dáil and Seanad. I am arranging to have a copy of this announcement placed in the Library. Work is proceeding on the preparations for this issue and I will be bringing proposals before the House in due course. I hope it will be possible to issue this coin before the end of the year. I have no immediate plans for the issue of other new coins or notes.

Neither I nor the Central Bank have any function in regard to the provision of medals. As regards commemorative coins, it has been long-standing policy to provide coins primarily for domestic purposes. A special silver ten shilling coin was issued in 1966 on the fiftieth anniversary of the Easter Rising. Should another suitable occasion arise the striking of a commemorative coin would be considered on its merits.