Brian Leddin (Limerick City, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I have received apologies from Senator Higgins.

The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the current state of play in regard to the circular economy following on from the signing into law of the Circular Economy and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2022. On behalf of the committee, I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Ossian Smyth, and his officials to the meeting.

Before we begin I will read out the note on privilege. I remind witnesses of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him or her or it identifiable, or otherwise engage in speech that may be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. If their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, I will direct them to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against any person outside the Houses or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I remind members that they are only allowed to participate in the meeting if they are physically located in the Leinster House complex. In this regard, I ask those members who are joining us remotely to confirm that they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus prior to making their contributions.

I call on the Minister of State to make his opening statement.