Dominic Hannigan (Meath East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

We had a number of items of business to conduct in private session. Apologies for the late start to today's proceedings. We received apologies from Deputies Seán Crowe and Timmy Dooley. Before I kick off the proceedings, can I just remind witnesses, guests and Members to switch off their mobile telephones. It is not sufficient to put them onto silent mode. They could interfere with the broadcasting equipment and this is going out live on the Internet. Please turn off your telephones now.

On behalf of the committee I welcome the Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade with special responsibility for European affairs, Deputy Dara Murphy, to today's meeting. The Minister is here to discuss the forthcoming General Affairs Council meeting. We look forward to the Minister's comments.