Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Deputy Jack Chambers. Before proceeding, I ask members to please put their mobile phones on silent.

The purpose of the first part of today's meeting is to consider a Supplementary Estimate for 2018 relating to Vote 20 - Garda Síochana, Vote 21 - Prisons, Vote 22 - Courts Service, and Vote 24 - Department of Justice and Equality. I welcome the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Charles Flanagan, and his officials. Before we begin, members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against either a person outside the Houses or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I invite the Minister to make his opening statement.