Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remind Members to ensure their mobile phones are switched off for the duration of the meeting, please, as they interfere with the broadcasting equipment, even when on silent mode.

This meeting has been convened for the purposes of consideration of the Public Health (Standardised Packaging of Tobacco) Bill 2014. I welcome the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy James Reilly, and officials from the Department of Health to this meeting. As this is a select sub-committee of Dáil Éireann, officials cannot speak or participate in the meeting. They may advise the Minister but they cannot speak in public. A list of amendments has been circulated to Members in advance of today's meeting. As Chairman I received correspondence from John Player, a copy of which is available on the committee's database. I understand Members have also received a copy of the same letter. I invite the Minister to make his opening remarks.