Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Deputy Murnane O'Connor. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss planning for inclusive communities. On behalf of the committee, I welcome the Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage, Deputy Kieran O'Donnell, and his officials: Patrick O'Sullivan, principal officer, and Clare Naughton, assistant principal officer, social inclusion unit.

Before we begin, witnesses 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 of the House in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging the good name or entity of the person. Therefore, their statements, if they are potentially defamatory in identifying a person, and if the witnesses are directed to discontinue their remarks, it is imperative that they do so.

Members are reminded of the long-standing self-same practice that they should not comment on or criticise persons outside of the House in such a way as to make them identifiable. It is important that if members are contributing remotely to the committee, they must do so within the confines of the Leinster House precinct, and to confirm that position to the committee before they begin their remarks if they are contributing on Microsoft Teams.

Without further ado, I call on the Minister of State to make his opening remarks.