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

The purpose of today's meeting is to discuss Climate Action Plan 2023, which was published just before Christmas. I welcome to the committee the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Coveney, and his officials.

As usual, I will read out the note on privilege, which is to remind the witnesses 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. If a witness's statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, I will direct the witness to discontinue and it is imperative that any such direction is complied with.

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. I remind members joining us online that they are only allowed to participate in the meeting if they are physically located in the Leinster House complex. In that regard, I ask that prior to making their contributions they confirm they are indeed on the grounds of Leinster House.

I invite the Minister to make his opening statement.