John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We are joined today by the Secretary General of the Department of the Taoiseach, Mr. Martin Fraser. The meeting will follow the usual format. Mr. Fraser will give an opening statement and then members may ask questions on that opening statement and the subject matter of the meeting. With regard to privilege, those attending from outside the Leinster House campus should note that their privilege is limited. Those attending from within have full privilege. Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. I ask members to remember that when they are asking questions. I now ask Mr. Fraser for his opening remarks.