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

The purpose of this meeting is to have a discussion on the committee's general oversight of EirGrid. On behalf of the committee, I welcome from EirGrid: Mr. Mark Foley, chief executive, Mr. Michael Mahon, chief infrastructure officer, and Dr. Liam Ryan, chief innovation and planning officer.

I remind 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. We do not have any witnesses joining us from outside today.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against any 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 to confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus prior to making their contribution to the meeting.

I invite Mr. Foley to make his opening statement.