Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail)

l welcome everyone to today's meeting. Members attending remotely should put themselves on mute when they are not contributing so that we do not pick up any background noise or feedback. As usual, I remind all of those in attendance to ensure that their mobile phones are on silent mode or switched off.

Members attending remotely are reminded of the constitutional requirement that, in order to participate in public meetings, they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex. If they are within the precincts of Leinster House, they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the presentation that they make to the committee. This means that they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they may say at the meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse this privilege, and it is my duty as Cathaoirleach to ensure that this privilege is not abused. 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 that they comply with any such direction.

Members are also reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity outside of the Houses or an official of the Houses either by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

On our agenda for today's meeting is an engagement with the Minister for Education and Youth, Deputy Helen McEntee, on her policy priorities. Before we proceed, I put on record that Senator Gareth Scahill was elected Leas-Chathaoirleach of the committee at our last private meeting. I publicly congratulate Senator Scahill on his appointment and wish him all the best in his new role.

The Minister is very welcome to the committee. I thank her for coming here today. We look forward to working constructively with her. I will allow her five minutes to read her opening statement and we will then proceed to questions from members.