Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The purpose of the meeting is for the joint committee to discuss the draft transportation strategy for the greater Dublin area. It is the final draft for 2022 to 2042. In accordance with the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008, the National Transport Authority, NTA, recently forwarded a draft strategy to committee for consideration. I am very pleased to welcome, on behalf of the committee, Ms Anne Graham, CEO, and her colleague, Mr. Hugh Creegan, deputy CEO, NTA. I thank them for coming in at an unusual time. Nevertheless, the time does not make it any less important.

I must read a note on privilege. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect 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. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in respect of an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

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 Houses or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I also remind members of the constitutional requirement that they be physically present in the confines of the Leinster House complex to participate in public meetings. I will not permit a member to participate where he or she is not able to meet this constitutional requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be reluctantly asked to leave the meeting. In this regard, I ask any member participating using Microsoft Teams to confirm that he or she is on the grounds of the Leinster House campus prior to making his or her contribution. Members attending in the committee room are asked to exercise personal responsibility to protect themselves and others from the risk of contracting Covid-19.

I invite Ms Graham to make her opening statement.