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

It is my responsibility as Cathaoirleach to ensure that privilege is not abused. If witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or entity, by name or in such as 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.

Members are also 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.

The committee will now consider the impact of energy poverty and the retrofitting of homes in rural and urban areas. This is the third meeting the committee has held on this topic, with the fourth meeting to be held next week. Today, we will consider innovative measures to address fuel poverty in advance of retrofitting homes. We will also consider what measures can be carried out on homes that are unsuitable for deep retrofits or where the cost of such retrofits is beyond the reach of home owners. Members are always interested in new and emerging innovations in this sector and are eager to hear from the witnesses regarding the challenges they have faced and any potential solutions they may have.

I welcome Mr. John Mullins, chairperson of EnergyCloud Ireland, Mr. Cathal Lee, co-founder of EnergyCloud Ireland, and Ms Laura McDonnell, Clúid Housing. From Irish Rural Link, I welcome Mr. Seamus Boland, CEO, and Ms Louise Lennon, policy and communications officer. I invite Mr. Mullins to make his opening statement.