James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wish the Minister for Justice, Deputy Harris, members and all our guests a good afternoon, be they officials attending with the Minister or, indeed, the interested parties in the Gallery. They are very welcome to observe our proceedings. Today, we consider the Criminal Justice (Incitement to Violence or Hatred and Hate Offences) Bill 2022. We have not received any apologies to date. Deputy Costello has indicated he hopes to join but will be juggling another committee meeting at the same time.

We are all familiar with the procedures but if any divisions are called, physical attendance will be required even though members can participate remotely in making commentary. If there is a division, all members will be required to be present in the committee room.

Before I go to the Bill on a section-by-section basis, would the Minister like to make any opening remarks?