Pauline O'Reilly (Green Party) | Oireachtas source

The meeting will commence in public session. Apologies have been received from Deputies Alan Farrell, Bríd Smith and Whitmore. As Deputy Leddin is unable to attend this meeting, he has asked me to stand in for him and I am delighted and honoured to do so. I am also a member of the committee. The purpose of today's meeting is to hear from the witnesses and engage with them, particularly on some of the key issues around the circular economy and COP27, including climate justice and energy. We have representatives here from Youth Work Ireland, UNICEF Ireland and the Irish Second-Level Students Union, ISSU, along with Ms Latisha McCrudden of St. Brendan's College, who we also are delighted to have. I thank them all for coming here today.

I will read a note on 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 with regard to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative they comply with any such direction. Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment, 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 thank the Cathaoirleach of the Seanad, Senator Mark Daly, with whom we have had many conversations about this important day. We are delighted to have the witnesses here in the Seanad Chamber. This is the second such event. Senator Mark Daly is passionate about the issues around climate action and will make a few opening remarks.