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

The purpose of today's meeting is to receive an update on the Government's road safety strategy for the period 2021-30. We are joined by representatives of the Road Safety Authority, RSA, An Garda Síochána and the Medical Bureau of Road Safety. On behalf of the committee, I am pleased to welcome Mr. Sam Waide, CEO of the RSA. Attending remotely from the RSA are: Ms Denise Barry, director of strategy, policy and technology; Mr. Brian Farrell, communications manager; and Ms Velma Burns, research manager. From An Garda Síochána, I welcome: Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman, who has responsibility for road policing and community engagement; Chief Superintendent Michael Hennebry of the National Roads Policy Bureau; Superintendent Thomas Murphy; and Superintendent Mr. Sean O’Reardon. From the Medical Bureau of Road Safety, I welcome Professor Denis Cusack, director. I thank the witnesses for taking the time out of their busy schedules for this meeting. Based on recent events, we felt it important to have an update, particularly as the committee responsible for this area.

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 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 Mr. Waide to make his opening statement on behalf of the RSA.