David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

All mobile telephones should be switched off as they cause interference with the recording system, even in silent mode. This meeting has been convened to consider the Supplementary Estimates for Vote 20 - Garda Síochána and Vote 24 - Justice and Equality. I propose that the committee consider both Supplementary Estimates together.

The Supplementary Estimates for Vote 20 - Garda Síochána and Vote 24 - Justice and Equality were referred to the committee by the Dáil on 19 November 2013 with an instruction to report back to the Dáil not later than 21 November 2013. The role of the committee under Standing Orders is to consider the Supplementary Estimates and report, by way of a message to the Dáil, that we have done so. I thank the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Shatter, and his officials from the Department for attending and assisting our consideration of these Supplementary Estimates. I also thank them for the briefing material circulated in advance to members of the committee.

I propose that the following arrangements apply to the debate. The Minister will address the committee and after that each of the Opposition spokespersons will have the opportunity to respond. We can then have an open discussion. Is that agreed? Agreed. I remind members that in accordance with Standing Orders, discussions should be confined to the items constituting the Supplementary Estimates. I ask members to stick to the matters on the agenda and not to wander off to other issues.