George Lawlor (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

No apologies have been received. Before we proceed, I have a few housekeeping matters to go through as follows. In accordance with Standing Orders, I wish to make the following declaration:

I do solemnly declare that I will duly and faithfully, and to the best of my knowledge and ability, execute the office of Cathaoirleach of the Joint Committee on Key Issues Affecting the Traveller Community without fear or favour, apply the rules as laid down by the House in an impartial and fair manner, maintain order and uphold the rights and privileges of members in accordance with the Constitution and Standing Orders.

I remind members of the constitutional requirement that in order to participate in public meetings, members must be physically present within the confines of Leinster House complex. Members of the committee attending remotely must do so from within the precincts of Leinster House. This is due to the constitutional requirement that in order to participate in public meetings, members must be physically present within the confines of the place where the Parliament has chosen to sit. In this regard, I ask any members participating via MS Teams that prior to making a contribution to the meeting, they confirm they are on the grounds of Leinster House campus.

Members are reminded 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. Therefore, if their 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.

Good afternoon. I am delighted and honoured to have been appointed Cathaoirleach of the Joint Committee on Key Issues Affecting the Traveller Community. I welcome all members of the committee. I look forward to working with them all in a genuine spirit of partnership and co-operation in addressing the many issues and challenges involved in the subject of the committee. I sincerely mean that. We will do the work as a collective. I hope that over the coming years we will be able to identify and work on the various issues affecting the Traveller community and bring some issues to the table that will improve and enhance the lives of the Travelling community across the country. Do any members wish to comment? I call on Senator Rabbitte.