Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We have received apologies this afternoon from Deputy Steven Matthews. The purpose of today's meeting of the committee is to meet with Mr. Bryan Bourke, chairperson designate of the Irish Air Navigation Service, AirNav Ireland. On behalf of the committee, I am pleased to welcome Mr. Bourke and his advisory colleague.

On formality and privilege, witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect 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. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory with regard to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Members 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 of the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I wish to remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically presence within the confines of the Leinster House complex in order to participate in public meetings. I will not permit a member to participate when they are not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting. In this regard, I would ask members participating via Microsoft Teams that prior to making their contribution to the meeting, they confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus.

We have had the opening statement circulated to us this afternoon. I invite Mr. Bourke to make that opening statement.