Steven Matthews (Wicklow, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I note that we will suspend the meeting at 1.50 p.m. to allow Deputies to attend the Chamber and we will resume again at 3 p.m.

Today, the Select Committee on Transport and Communications meets for consideration of the 2024 Revised Estimates for public services, Vote 31 – transport. I remind members that the committee has no role in approving the Estimates; rather it is an ongoing opportunity for the committee to examine departmental expenditure to make the process more transparent and to engage in a meaningful way on relevant performance issues. I thank the Department and Minister for the briefing note provided in advance of the meeting. I welcome the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, and his officials.

I will read a quick note on privilege before we start. All witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice 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.

Therefore, if a witness's statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or identity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks and it is imperative 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.

For anyone watching this meeting, Oireachtas Members and witnesses now have the option of being physically present in the committee room or joining the meeting remotely via Microsoft Teams. I 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 they not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting. In this regard, I ask any member participating via Microsoft Teams that prior to making a contribution to the meeting, they confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus.

I invite the Minister to make his opening statement.