Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I remind members participating in the meeting remotely that they must do so from within the Leinster House complex only. We have not received apologies from any members. Today we will discuss the issue of the skills and supports required for businesses to meet their decarbonisation targets. Ireland has committed to a legally binding target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions no later than 2050 and a reduction of 51% by 2030. Irish enterprises will face many challenges in implementing a detailed agenda of transition and change to ensure these targets are met while remaining competitive in a decarbonising world. Leadership and supports will be essential to drive industry changes while at the same time protecting and expanding our industrial competitiveness and prosperity. Today, I am pleased we have the opportunity to consider this and other related matters further with the following officials. From Skillnet Ireland are Mr. Paul Healy, chief executive, Ms Tracey Donnery, director of policy and communications, and joining us online are Mr. Dave Flynn, director of business networks and Mr. Ken Stockil, director of sustainable enterprise. From the Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland, SEAI, are Mr. Declan Meally, director of business, public sector and transport, and Dr. Fergus Sharkey, head of business supports and transport.

Before we start, as I always have to do, I will explain parliamentary privilege to witnesses. There are some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses as regards references witnesses may make to another person in their evidence. The evidence of witnesses physically present or who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected pursuant to both the Constitution and statute by absolute privilege. Witnesses are reminded 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. Therefore, if witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed by me to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Opening statements have been circulated to members. To commence our consideration of this matter, I invite Mr. Healy to make his opening remarks on behalf of Skillnet Ireland.