Aideen Hayden (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I remind members to ensure their mobile telephones are switched off. If they are not, it causes serious problems for the broadcasting, editorial and sound staff.

In this session we commence our pre-legislative scrutiny of the draft scheme of the Public Sector Standards Bill. The purpose of the Bill is to reform the current legislative framework governing the disclosure of interests and other ethical obligations for public officials. I welcome from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform Mr. William Beausang, assistant secretary of the Government reform unit, Ms Evelyn O'Connor, principal officer, and Mr. Kieran Sheedy, assistant principal. The discussion will begin with Mr. Beausang's opening statement, after which there will be a question and answer session.