Fiona O'Loughlin (Kildare South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

No apologies have been received. All mobile phones should be switched off, as they cause interference with the broadcasting and recording equipment, even when left in silent mode.

The meeting has been convened to consider the Supplementary Estimate for Vote 26 - Education and Skills. I thank the Minister and his officials for attending to assist in our consideration of the Supplementary Estimate. I also thank him for providing information on same. I propose that he make his opening remarks, after which party spokespersons may make brief contributions. We will consider individually the three subheads that comprise the Supplementary Estimate. There can then be brief closing remarks. Is that agreed? Agreed. In accordance with Standing Orders, discussion should be confined to the items which constitute the Supplementary Estimate.

I remind members of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.