asked the Taoiseach if he will report on any progress regarding the possible introduction of an order of merit or honours list in this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

There have been no further developments since the Deputy last raised this matter.

In view of the fact that a number of elections have taken place over the last couple of years that may have disrupted the Taoiseach's intentions in that area, would it now be a good time, if necessary, to set up a committee comprising the heads of Departments or a committee of the House to investigate the possibility of such an honours list? Would he confirm that there is general acceptance of the need for such an award in this country?

I agree with the Deputy that we have four or five years of stability in which to attend to all these matters. I will be prepared to try and process that matter at any time that the circumstances appear to be opportune.

(Limerick East): Where is the Minister for rising prices today?

In fact, the disadvantage we suffer from of not having some such system in place comes to light in connection with our Presidency of the EC. I would be prepared to talk to the parties in the House about it if there was a view that we could make some progress at this stage.

Arising from what the Taoiseach has said, would he take the initiative and ask the Whips to have initial consultations? In the context of the Presidency of the European Community, he might see his way to progress the idea further.

I might be prepared to pursue it myself with party leaders but I hope the Deputy will be able to give me a guarantee that on this occasion Deputy Jim Mitchell would not be the first to jump up and rubbish the whole idea.

Deputy Quinn is offering.

Can the Taoiseach assure the House, and perhaps his own party, that the extension of an honours list would not include the addition of more PD Senators to the Upper House?

There is no room for any more.

I would say Deputy Durkan has more control over Deputy Jim Mitchell than the Taoiseach has over the Minister for the Environment.