Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein)
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Today we will discuss the departmental report Powering Prosperity - Ireland's Offshore Wind Industrial Strategy. The development of Ireland's offshore renewable energy sector presents many opportunities and challenges. It is, therefore, very important and welcome that the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment has prepared a comprehensive strategy to guide the development in this area in a way that aims to meet our ambitious climate and economic aspirations. The committee considers the future of offshore energy generation as a key priority of its work programme and is pleased to have the opportunity to discuss these matters further with the following representatives from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment: Mr. Gary Tobin, assistant secretary, and Mr. Jack McDermot, assistant principal officer.

Before we start I wish to explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practices of the Houses as regards the references witnesses make to other persons in their evidence. The evidence of witnesses physically present or who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected pursuant to both the Constitution and statute by absolute privilege. Witnesses are again reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative they comply with any such direction I may give.

The opening statements have been circulated to members. To commence our consideration of this matter I now invite Mr. Tobin to make his opening remarks on behalf of the Department.