Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan. All mobile phones should be switched off as they cause interference, even on silent mode, with the recording equipment in the committee rooms.

Today's meeting has been convened to consider a Supplementary Estimate for Vote 35 - Army Pensions. The motion was referred to the select committee by Dáil Éireann on 19 November. I thank the Minister of State and his officials for attending and for sending us the briefing material in advance of the meeting, which has been circulated to members.

I remind members that in accordance with Standing Orders, the discussion should be confined to the items constituting the Supplementary Estimate. I ask the Minister of State to make his opening contribution.