Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Deputy Ó Laoghaire is running late. Members are required to participate in the meeting remotely from within the Leinster House complex only. I remind those in attendance to make sure their mobile phones are switched off or on silent mode.

I welcome the Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Humphreys, to the meeting. Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or entity outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Before we consider today's business, I want to take a moment to remember our former colleague and Taoiseach, the late John Bruton. While tributes will be paid to John in the Dáil Chamber this afternoon, it would be remiss of us not to acknowledge the critical role that John played in supporting the development of the Oireachtas parliamentary committee structure. It is only fitting that the first Dáil committee meeting to take place after his passing is that of the social protection committee, as he was a very strong advocate for social justice. It is also apt that it happens to be an Estimates meeting, because John was a very strong promoter of public accountability and the vital role played by us, as TDs, in ensuring such accountability.

On behalf of the committee, I extend my deepest sympathies to Finola, Matthew, Juliana, Emily and Mary-Elizabeth; to his brother, Richard, and sister, Mary; and to the Fine Gael party on John's passing. John's legacy as both a statesman, and a sincere, compassionate individual, will undoubtedly endure. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

The committee will now consider the supplementary Estimate for Vote 37 - social protection. I welcome the Minister and her officials here today, and the Aire Stáit, Deputy Joe O'Brien. I invite the Minister to make her opening statement.