Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On behalf of the committee I welcome the Minister of State with responsibility for European affairs and defence, Deputy Jennifer Carroll MacNeill. Today's discussion is on the latest developments at the General Affairs Council. The Minister of State is very welcome. I believe it is her first time to join us in this committee in her role. Before we kick off I will give the usual notification on privileges, which I will rattle through. All witness are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect 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 that 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 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 or her identifiable. I remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of Leinster House to participate in public meetings. I cannot permit a member to participate where he or she is not adhering to this requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave.

With the housekeeping out of the way, I call the Minister of State to make her opening statement.