John Paul Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Before we begin, I remind members and delegates to turn off their mobile phones as the interference caused by them affects sound quality and the transmission of proceedings. Apologies have been received from Deputy Pearse Doherty and Deputy David Cullinane, who is being substituted for by Deputy Maurice Quinlivan.

I welcome the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Deputy Paschal Donohoe, and his officials from the Department.

The Minister will be addressing the economic and fiscal position in the context of budget 2017. Before we begin, I bring to the attention of the committee that witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they are to give to the committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. 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 by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I call the Minister to make his opening comments.