Brian Leddin (Limerick City, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the built environment sector as it relates to climate and the challenges we face in that regard. We will have a particular focus on the climate action plan that was published before Christmas. On behalf of the committee, from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage I welcome Ms Sarah Neary, principal officer, Mr. Sean Armstrong, senior adviser, Mr. John Wickham, senior adviser and Ms Margaret Power, assistant principal officer.

I remind our guests 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. If witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory in regard to an identifiable person or entity, I will direct them to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Members of the committee 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. Members are only allowed to participate in the meeting if they are physically located on the Leinster House complex. In this regard, I ask members who are joining us online, prior to making their first contribution, to confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus.

I call Mr. Armstrong to make his opening statement.