John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In today's meeting, we will deal with the topic of bid-rigging in the public sector procurement process. We are joined by Mr. Brian McHugh, Ms Úna Butler, Mr. Eksteen Maritz, Ms Anne Stewart, Mr. Declan McCormack and Mr. David O'Brien. They are all very welcome and I thank them for joining us.

I draw the witnesses' attention to the position as regards privilege. Witnesses who are present on the Leinster House campus are entitled to full privilege, whereas those joining us online from outside Leinster House may be only entitled to partial privilege. 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.

We will hear opening statements from Mr. McHugh and Ms Stewart. Ladies first.