Brian Leddin (Limerick City, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the climate action plan ahead of the next iteration of that plan in the context of ensuring that the State is on track with respect to its targets for 2030 and the longer term target relating to 2050.

On behalf of the committee, I welcome the Minister, Deputy Peter Burke, and his officials. Members should note that the Minister is operating under time a constraint and has to leave for another engagement by 2.30 p.m. We will endeavour to get through the questions and answers as quickly as possible.

Before we begin, I will read the note on privilege. I remind our guests 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 the person or entity. If their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, I will direct them to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Members of the committee 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 that they are only allowed to participate in the meeting if they are physically located in the Leinster House complex. I ask members joining us via Microsoft Teams to confirm they are on the grounds of Leinster House prior to making their contribution to the meeting. I see quite a few members are joining us from their offices. I ask them to confirm they are in their offices.

I call the Minister to make his opening statement.