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

Apologies have been received from Deputy Joe Carey, and I believe Deputy Paul Kehoe is substituting for him. Members participating in the meeting remotely are required to do so from within the Leinster House precincts only. I remind all in attendance to make sure their mobile phones are switched off or on silent mode. 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.

The purpose of this meeting is to consider the Automatic Enrolment Retirement Savings System Bill 2024. I welcome the Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Heather Humphreys, and her officials to the meeting.

I wish to bring some matters to the attention of members. Any member acting in substitution for a member of the committee should formally notify the clerk to the committee if she or he has not done so. Divisions will take place as they arise. Members must attend in person in the committee meeting room for all divisions although they may attend the meeting generally remotely. Members attending this meeting in accordance with Standing Order 106(3) should be aware that pursuant to that Standing Order, they may move amendments but cannot participate in voting on those amendments.

I invite the Minister, Deputy Humphreys, to make her opening statement.