Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remind members to ensure their mobile phones are switched off. This is important as it causes serious problems for broadcasting, editorial and sound staff. Apologies have been received from Deputies Michael McGrath and Pearse Doherty. I welcome the Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform with special responsibility for public procurement, open Government and eGovernment, Deputy Patrick O'Donovan, and his officials. On 21 November 2018, the Dáil ordered that Vote 12 - superannuation and retired allowances be referred to this committee for consideration. I invite the Minister of State to make his opening remarks.