Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein)
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Apologies have been received from Deputy Imelda Munster. You are all very welcome. I remind all those in attendance to ensure their mobile phones are switched off or are in silent mode.

Before we start, I wish to explain some of the limitations of parliamentary privilege and practices of the Houses as regards the reference you make to other persons in your evidence. The evidence of witnesses physically present or those who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected pursuant to both constitutional and statute by absolute privilege. This means that you have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything that you say at the meeting. However, you are expected not to abuse this privilege. It is my duty as Cathaoirleach to ensure it is not abused. Therefore, if your statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, you will be directed to discontinue your remarks and it is imperative that you comply.

Members and witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. Members are also reminded of the provision of Standing Order 218, that the committee shall refrain from inquiring into the merits of a policy or policies of the Government or a Minister of the Government or the merits or the objective of such policies.

The Comptroller and Auditor General, Mr. Seamus McCarthy, is a permanent witness and he is accompanied today by Ms Paula O'Connor, deputy director at the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General.

This morning, we will engage with officials from the National Transport Authority, NTA, and the Department of Transport to examine Financial Statements 2022: National Transport Authority. We are joined by the following officials from the NTA: Ms Anne Graham, chief executive officer; Mr. Hugh Creegan, deputy CEO; Mr. Philip L'Estrange, director of finance and corporate services; and Mr. Jeremy Ryan, director of public transport services. We are also joined by the following officials from the Department of Transport: Mr. Garret Doocey, assistant secretary; and Mr. John Boylan, principal officer. You are all very welcome. To begin, I will call on the Comptroller and Auditor General, Mr. Seamus McCarthy, for his opening statement.