Gerry Horkan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Deputy Lowry. The purpose of the meeting, as per the invitation, is for the joint committee to meet with representatives from the Dublin Airport Authority, DAA, to discuss summer plans and preparations for the holiday period. On behalf of the committee, I am pleased to welcome from DAA, Mr. Kenny Jacobs, chief executive officer; Mr. Gary McLean, managing director of Dublin Airport; and Mr. Niall MacCarthy, managing director of Cork Airport.

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 a person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in respect of an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative they comply with any such direction.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the Houses or an official by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex to participate in public meetings. I will not permit any member to participate where he or she is not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Any member who attempts to participate from outside of the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting. In this regard, I ask any members participating via Microsoft Teams to confirm prior to making their contribution to the meeting that they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus.

I invite Mr. Jacobs to make his opening statement or take us through his presentation.