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

The purpose of today's meeting is to discuss the Government's draft electric vehicle charging infrastructure strategy. On behalf of the committee, I am pleased to welcome Dr. Aoife O'Grady, principal officer, and Ms Patricia Waller, assistant principal, from the Department of Transport. From the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, SEAI, I welcome Mr. Declan Meally, director of business, and Mr. Graham Brennan, programme manager. From the ESB, I welcome Ms Suzanne Ward, interim executive director, and Mr. John Byrne, head of ESB e-cars.

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 within the confines of the Leinster House complex to participate in public meetings. I will not permit members to participate where they are not adhering to 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 via Microsoft Teams to confirm that they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus prior to making their 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 Dr. O'Grady to make her opening statement on behalf of the Department of Transport.