Gerry Horkan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The purpose of today's meeting is to engage with Iarnród Éireann-Irish Rail and be provided with an update on its capital projects and operational activities. I am very pleased to welcome Mr. Jim Meade, chief executive, Mr. Paul Hendrick, director of capital investments, and Mr. Barry Kenny, corporate communications manager.

Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect 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. 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 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 also remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex in order to participate in public meetings. I will not permit a member to participate where he or she is not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting and in this regard, I ask any member partaking via Microsoft Teams to confirm that he or she is on the grounds of the Leinster House campus prior to making a contribution.

Mr. Meade, I now invite you to make your opening statement.