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

The purpose of the meeting is to receive an update on the roll-out of the national broadband plan. On behalf of the committee, I am pleased to welcome from National Broadband Ireland Mr. Peter Hendrick, chief executive officer, and Mr. T.J. Malone, chief executive officer for deployment. They are very welcome.

On privilege, witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not criticise or make charges against a 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 relation to 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 remind members of the constitutional requirement that they be physically present in the confines of the Leinster House complex in order to participate in public meetings. Reluctantly, I will not permit a member to participate when they are not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting. I ask members participating via Microsoft Teams that, prior to making their contribution, they confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus. 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 Mr. Hendrick to make his opening statement on behalf of National Broadband Ireland.