Liam Twomey (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Senator Marc MacSharry.

The purpose of today's meeting is to consider the motion referred to the joint committee by the Dáil and Seanad concerning the transfer of proceeds from the sale of the State's assets in Aer Lingus. I ask members to note that a return date of not later than 15 October applies. I welcome the Minister of State at the Department of Finance, Deputy Simon Harris, and his officials, Mr. Tom O'Connell and Mr. Eoin Dorgan. I thank them their attendance and for assisting our consideration of the motion. Briefings have been circulated to members. If we adhere to a reasonably strict schedule, the Minister of State will address the committee and then each of the Opposition spokespersons can respond. We can then have an open discussion. Is that agreed? Agreed. I invite the Minister of State to brief the committee on the motion. This will be followed by a question-and-answer session.