Neasa Hourigan (Dublin Central, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

We have not received any apologies. I remind members and witnesses to turn off their mobile phones as the interference from mobile phones affects the sound quality and transmission of the meeting. I welcome the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Deputy Michael McGrath, and Mr. Ronnie Downes and Mr. John Kinnane from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. I thank them for coming in and making themselves available to meet the committee in advance of budget 2021. This pre-budget session with the Minister is an opportunity for the committee to continue its pre-budget scrutiny and, in particular, to examine increased public spending for 2020 and how this will impact budget 2021. Members are reminded 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.

I remind members the meeting is limited to two hours due to the current Covid-19 guidelines. This is to ensure the safety of the members, witnesses and secretariat staff. We have agreed to speaking slots and times and I ask members to remain within these agreed times. I remind members that other members are due to attend later and I ask members to vacate their seats at a reasonable time and use the wipes available to wipe the area, which will allow the next set of members to arrive and take a seat. I invite the Minister to make his opening statement.