Paul McAuliffe (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We are meeting to discuss the local and European elections in 2024 and the subsequent general election. From the Electoral Commission, we are joined by Mr. Art O'Leary, chief executive, Mr. Carey, head of electoral operations, Dr. Mary-Clare O'Sullivan, head of electoral integrity and research, and Ms Karen Kehily, head of corporate services. From the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, we are joined by Mr. Barry Ryan, principal officer in the franchise unit, Ms Petra Woods, principal officer with the electoral registration modernisation project, and Ms Paris Beausang, assistant principal in the franchise unit. Members have been circulated with the relevant papers.

I have received apologies from the Cathaoirleach, who will join us shortly following a contribution he will make in the Dáil.

Before we begin, I remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the place where the Parliament has chosen to sit, namely, Leinster House, to participate in public meetings.

Witnesses attending in the committee room are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their contributions. This means they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they say at the meeting. Members and witnesses are expected not to abuse the privilege they enjoy and it is my duty, as Chair, to ensure this privilege is not abused. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation 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 and witnesses 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.

The opening statements submitted to the committee will be published on our web page after the meeting. I invite the witnesses to make their opening statements, starting with Mr. Ryan.