Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from the Chairman, Deputy Brendan Smith. Mobile phones should be switched off because, even on silent mode, they cause interference with the recording equipment in the committee room.

We are here to consider a Supplementary Estimate for Vote 28- Foreign Affairs and Trade. Members have a briefing note on it. I thank the Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Deputy McHugh, and his officials, for attending and for the briefing material provided. I remind Deputy Grealish that, in accordance with Standing Orders, the discussion must be confined to the items constituting the Supplementary Estimate.