Steven Matthews (Wicklow, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I thank members. We have received apologies from Senator Craughwell.

The purpose of today's meeting, as per the invite, is for the joint committee to discuss the Government's new strategy to manage and reduce congestion, Moving Together: A Strategic Approach to Improving the Efficiency of Ireland’s Transport System. I welcome to the committee the Minister for Transport and Communications, Deputy Eamon Ryan, and his officials.

Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not criticise or make charges against a 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. If witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory in respect of an identifiable person or entity, I will direct them 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 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.

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 are not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Therefore, 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, prior to making a contribution, that they confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus.

I invite the Minister to make his opening statement.