Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

When I proposed the meeting, there was nobody here apart from one member. The witnesses are here based on the decision we made then and that was the mandate they have here today, with respect to them. The whole idea is that we now have a discussion on the ideas that were put forward and, obviously, the witnesses want to respond very strongly to some of the points. After that, we have to bring in the Minister. Hopefully, we can prepare a report on this over a short period in order to push the change that is needed. I agree with Deputy Eamon Ryan that we need radical solutions, and there is no doubt about that.

The witnesses might wish to respond to the questions. If issues arise with regard to any individual issue, they can discuss those if they wish.