John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Senator Higgins. In today's session the committee will examine the expenditure ceiling and resource allocation to the Department of Health and HSE in the context of budget 2024. We are joined by Mr. David Moloney, Secretary General, Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform; Mr. Eoin Dormer, principal officer, health Vote; and Ms Niamh Callaghan, principal officer, expenditure and policy unit.

I draw the witnesses' attention to a note on privilege. Those participating on the campus of Leinster House will have full privilege. Those not on the campus may only have limited privilege. Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I invite the Secretary General to make his opening statement.