Barry Ward (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Deputy Niamh Smyth. The Chair has had to step out and may return. I welcome the Minister to the meeting. I will invite her to make an opening statement and then I will call on members of the committee to ask questions in the order in which they indicate to me. We operate on a rota system, with each member getting five minutes initially, to engage with the business. It is important to note that the five minutes is for both questions and answers. Therefore, it is essential that members put their questions succinctly to witnesses and that the witnesses be succinct in their responses. We can then have a second round of three minutes, if required.

I remind members about the protocols on mobile phones interfering with the sound system, so please turn them off or turn them to silent. I now call on the Minister to make her opening statement.