John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I ask members and visitors to ensure their mobile phones are either switched off completely or in safe or flight mode, depending on their device, as mobile phones can cause interference with recording systems.

I draw attention to the fact that by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to this committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter to only qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. They are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. The opening statement submitted to the committee will be published on the committee's website after this meeting. Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or persons outside the Houses or an official by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I welcome the representatives from the County and City Management Association, CCMA, one of whom will make a brief presentation to the committee. The full submission has already been circulated to members. The association's representatives this afternoon are: Mr. Eugene Cummins, CCMA chief executive; Mr. Dick Brady, Dublin City Council; Mr. Cathal Morgan, Dublin Region Homeless Executive; and Mr. Billy Coman, South Dublin County Council. Mr. Cummins will make a brief presentation. I will then open the meeting up to members to ask questions, which the witnesses will answer.

We will do them individually rather than banking the questions. I ask members to be concise in their questions and, perhaps, we will stick to five minutes each for the first question and then we can come back for additional questions, to give everyone an opportunity. I invite Mr. Cummins to make his opening statement.