Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

All those present in the committee room are asked to exercise personal responsibility to protect themselves and others from the risk of contracting Covid-19 and members who participate remotely need to do so only from within the Leinster House complex. I have received no apologies today.

Our engagement is with the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Leo Varadkar, regarding an update on quarters 1 and 2 and matters relating to the Department. The Department is responsible for advising and implementing the Government's policies that relate to developing the productive capacity of the economy and fostering an environment that provides for employment and job creation and sustainability. The Department is also engaged in developing policies that enable fair competition in the marketplace, protect consumers and safeguard workers.

Today, I am pleased that we have the opportunity to consider these matters further with the Minister. I also welcome Mr. John Newham, assistant secretary, Ms Tara Coogan, principal officer and Ms Jill Colquhoun, assistant principal, from the Department.

Before we start I will explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses regarding references witnesses and members may make to another person in their evidence. The evidence of witnesses physically present or who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected pursuant both to the Constitution and statute by absolute privilege. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice 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 regard to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

The opening statement from the Minister has been circulated to members. To commence our consideration of this matter, I invite him to make his opening statement.