Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the delegation and all those in the Gallery, with their different roles and representing various regional authorities and cities. It is great to have them all here. Cuirim fáilte ar son an choiste roimh an uachtarán, Mr. Apostolos Tzitzikostas. He is very welcome. I hope I am pronouncing his name correctly. It is very good to see the head of the Irish delegation to the European Committee of the Regions, Councillor Michael Murphy, and his fellow delegate, Councillor Kate Feeney. They are all very welcome. The European Committee of the Regions has three political priorities: bringing Europe closer to the people; managing fundamental societal transformations; and cohesion, our fundamental value.

All witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not criticise or make charges against any person, persons 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. Therefore, if the statement of a witness is potentially defamatory in respect of an identifiable person or entity, the witness will be directed to discontinue these remarks. It is imperative that he or she comply with any such direction.

I invite Mr. Tzitzikostas to make his presentation.