Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remind members to ensure their mobile phones are switched off or on flight mode as they cause interference with the sound system.

The purpose of the meeting is to have a review of the programmes of the Department of Rural and Community Development, followed by a discussion in private session. Is that agreed? Agreed.

I welcome the Minister, Deputy Ring, and the Minister of State, Deputy Kyne. I thank them for accepting our invitation. As they will be aware, we finished programme A at the last session of the select committee. I invite the Minister to make his opening statement. He is to be followed by the Minister of State.