Alan Farrell (Dublin Fingal, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Good afternoon everyone. Apologies have been received from Senator Craughwelll and Deputy Duncan Smith. The purpose of today's meeting of the joint committee is to discuss pre-legislative scrutiny of the National Cyber Security Bill 2024. I am very pleased to welcome Mr. Brian Honan, chairman of Cyber Ireland. I thank him for his attendance.

I remind witnesses 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 which might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks and it is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

I remind members of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against any person outside the House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I would also like to remind members of the constitutional requirement that members 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 if they are not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Therefore, if any member attempts to participate from outside the precincts, they will be asked to leave the meeting. In this regard, I ask that any member participating on MS Teams to the meeting to confirm prior to making their contribution that they are on the grounds of the Leinster House complex.

We will commence with the opening statement of Mr. Honan.