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

I thank the witnesses for their opening statements and presentations. As we have three distinct groups of witnesses, if questions are being directed to somebody in particular, this should be stated at the outset. I ask the witnesses to avoid repetition, but they should feel free to comment on questions which have been asked. Mr. O'Connell stated we are here to look for solutions, and this is the remit of the committee. If there is something on the mind of the witnesses, I ask them to be as direct and forward as they like. Rather than having a history lesson, we are trying to come forward with real and practical solutions. All the witnesses have made written recommendations and they should feel free to add to these during the course of the afternoon.