Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish everyone a good morning. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Mr. Teimuraz Janjalia, one of Georgia's Deputy Ministers of Foreign Affairs. I hope I have pronounced his name correctly. He is joined by his ambassador, as well as one of his senior councillors. They are all very welcome.

Before we begin the formal session, we have what we call a note on privilege that I must read out. All 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 or her 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 in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks and it is imperative that they comply.

Members are reminded of the long-standing 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 there is a constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex in order to participate in public meetings through MS Teams. If members wish to participate they will be asked to state they are present within the confines of Leinster House and if not, they cannot make a contribution.

I begin our session by calling on the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs to address the committee.