Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have received apologies from Senator Wilson. Our agenda item is a meeting with representatives of the Reserve Defence Force Representative Association, RDFRA. I formally welcome Mr. Eugene Gargan, president, Mr. Martin Cooney, public relations officer, Mr. Neil Richardson, general secretary and Mr. Mark Ecock, national executive member. I look forward to hearing from them on the issues facing the Reserve Defence Force and its members. The format of the meeting is we will hear opening statements followed by questions and answers with member of the committee. I ask members to be somewhat concise in their questions to allow all members the opportunity of participation.

I remind witnesses and members of the long-standing parliamentary practice that we should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make them identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, any statements that may be potentially defamatory with regard to any identifiable person or entity will result in a direction to discontinue the remarks. It is imperative that any such direction be complied with. I remind members that they are only allowed to participate in this meeting if they are physically located within the Leinster House complex. I remind witnesses that we are still operating a Covid-type hybrid. Some members may contribute from their offices as they can view proceedings and listen to the statements. They will be invited to participate in the usual manner.

With that, I am pleased to call on Mr. Neil Richardson to make his opening statement.