Brian Leddin (Limerick City, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the review of the Climate Action Plan 2023 with the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Coveney.

On behalf of the committee, I welcome the Minister and his officials to the meeting this afternoon.

Before we start, I will read out the note on privilege. I remind the witnesses of the long-standing parliamentary practice that witnesses 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. If witnesses statements are potentially defamatory in respect of an identifiable person or entity, I will direct them to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative they comply with any such direction.

Members of the committee 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 that they are only allowed to participate in the meeting if they are physically located on the Leinster House complex. In this regard, I ask all members prior to making their contribution to the meeting, if they are joining online, that they confirm that they are, indeed, on the grounds of Leinster House.

I invite the Minister to make his opening statement.