Gerry Horkan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We have received apologies from Deputies James O’Connor and Cathal Crowe. The purpose of the meeting today is for the joint committee to meet with the National Transport Authority chair designate, Mr. Peter Strachan. On behalf of the committee, I am pleased to welcome Mr. Strachan.

I will read a quick note on privilege before we start. 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 to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative 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 the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex to participate in public meetings. I will not permit members to participate if they are not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting. In this regard, I ask any members participating via MS Teams that, prior to making their contribution to the meeting, they confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus.

I invite Mr. Strachan to make his opening statement.