Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remind members, witnesses and observers in the public Gallery to turn off their mobile phones as distinct from putting them on flight mode or silent since the phones interfere with broadcasting and recording equipment. On a matter of EU scrutiny, the committee considered COM (2016) 549 on maritime safety and agreed that it warranted no further scrutiny. In our first session today, we will consider public transport for Ireland with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Shane Ross. Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against any person, either outside the Houses or an official, by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

The Minister must leave by 10.15 a.m but I welcome him and his officials to the committee. The Minister's opening statement has been circulated to members. I invite the Minister to make a brief opening statement. When he has concluded, I will ask the members to respond in groups of three. Members are limited to a maximum of a three minute contribution and I ask that the Minister also limits his responses to that time in order for the committee to cover as much ground as possible.