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

The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the recommendations contained in the report of the Citizens' Assembly on Biodiversity Loss relating to the funding and economics of nature restoration. The meeting will be split into two sessions. The first is with Professor Martha O'Hagan-Luff of Trinity College Dublin, Dr. Emer Ní Dhúill of Natural Capital Ireland and Dr. Tadhg O'Mahony of Dublin City University. The second session is with officials from the Department of Finance. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Professor Martha O'Hagan-Luff, Dr. Emer Ní Dhúill and Dr. Tadhg O'Mahony.

Before we begin, I will read out a note on privilege. I remind 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 their statements are potentially defamatory in respect of an identifiable person or entity, I will direct them to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative they comply with any such direction. We do not have any witnesses joining us from outside the Leinster House campus.

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 that they are only allowed to participate in this meeting if they are physically located on the Leinster House campus. In this regard I ask all members who are joining online or remotely from their offices, prior to making their contribution, to confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus.

I call Professor O'Hagan-Luff to make her opening statement.