Alan Farrell (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Members for their support. Apologies have been received from Deputy Anne Ferris and I wish to state that Deputy Stanton has been delayed.

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 35 - Army Pensions and Vote 36 - Defence. I propose that the committee considers the Supplementary Estimates on a subhead basis.

I welcome the Minister for Defence, Deputy Simon Coveney, and his staff to the committee. Item 1 is the Supplementary Estimates for Vote 35 - Army Pensions and Vote 36 - Defence.

I thank the Minister and his officials for attending and assisting in our consideration of the Supplementary Estimates. I also thank them for the briefing material that has been circulated to all 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 an opportunity to respond. We can then consider the Supplementary Estimates. Is that agreed? Agreed.

I remind Members that, in accordance with Standing Orders, discussion shall be confined to the item constituting the Supplementary Estimates. I invite the Minister to begin his presentation.