Lisa Chambers (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I remind members to switch off their mobile phones. We have received no apologies. I welcome the Minister to the committee and thank him for making himself available on quite short notice.

As we know, we are at a critical juncture in the Brexit negotiations so today's engagement on the topic is timely. Before we begin, 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 of the House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I call on the Minister to make his opening statement.