Seán Fleming (Laois, Fianna Fail)

The purpose of today's meeting is to hear from Uisce Éireann on its future work programme. I am pleased to welcome, Mr. Niall Gleeson, chief executive officer; Mr. Sean Laffey, asset management and sustainability director; and Ms Maria O'Dwyer, infrastructure development director.

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 that 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. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Before I invite Mr. Gleeson to make his opening statement, I ask members to indicate whether they wish to speak and the clerk will take note.