Steven Matthews (Wicklow, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

Today we will meet in two sessions to consider the Planning and Development Act (Exempted Development) Regulations, dealing with bus poles, bus stops, gas infrastructure, street furniture, reverse vending machines and temporary weather radar systems. We are joined by the Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Deputy Noonan, and his officials, who are very welcome to the committee today. The draft Planning and Development Act (Exempted Development) Regulations and an explanatory note have been circulated to us.

Members are aware of the obligations regarding privilege. For those who are within the confines of Leinster House, they are protected by absolute privilege. If they are attending the meeting from outside the confines of Leinster House, they may have limited privilege. Contributors are asked not to refer to any person or entity outside the Houses in any way as to make him, her or it identifiable. If I issue a direction in that regard, they must comply with it.

I call the Minister of State.