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

Before we commence I remind members and witnesses with mobile phones to turn them off or at least put them on flight mode. I welcome the Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Leo Varadkar, and his officials and I thank them for their attendance. 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 outside the Houses or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I thank the Minister for his opening statement, which was circulated to members yesterday evening. I ask the Minister to make an opening presentation and I will then award colleagues an opportunity to raise matters and questions with him.