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

No apologies have been received. The purpose of today's meeting is pre-budget engagement. The afternoon engagement is the first of two sessions today and forms part of the committee's scrutiny of budget 2025. The committee is due to meet later this evening to hear from the Ministers for Finance and Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform.

On behalf of the committee, I welcome the following witnesses: from the Central Bank, Dr. Martin O'Brien and Dr. Robert Kelly; from the Economic and Social Research Institute, Dr. Karina Doorley and Dr. Conor O'Toole; from the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council, Mr. Seamus Coffey, Professor Michael McMahon, Professor Stephen Millard and Dr. Eddie Casey; and from the Nevin Economic Research Institute, Dr. Tom McDonnell and Mr. Ciarán Nugent. Tá fáilte rompu anseo.

Before we begin I want to explain the limitations on parliamentary privilege and the practice of the House regarding the references witnesses can make in their evidence. Witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the presentations they make to the committee. That means they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they say at the meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse the privilege and it is my duty as Chair to ensure that this privilege is not abused. Therefore, if 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.

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, her or it identifiable. I remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the place the Parliament has chosen to sit, namely, here in Leinster House, in order to participate in public meetings. I will not permit a member to participate where he or she is not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting. Gabhaim buíochas leo.

Ansin, leanaimíd ar aghaidh leis na finnéithe. I now invite Dr. Kelly from the Central Bank to make his opening statement.