Michael Murphy (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)

Apologies have been received from Deputy Currie. The purpose of today's meeting is to consider the Revised Estimates for Public Services in respect of Vote 31 - Transport. I remind members that the committee has no role in approving the Estimates. This is an ongoing opportunity for the committee to examine departmental expenditure in order to make the process more transparent and to engage in a meaningful way on relevant performance issues.

I thank the Department for the briefing note provided to us in advance. I welcome the Minister, Deputy O'Brien, and his officials.

Witnesses 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 or witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory with regard 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.

Members 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, her or it identifiable. I remind members of the constitutional requirement that they 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 where they are not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to cease. In this regard, I ask any member partaking via Microsoft Teams that prior to making a contribution to the meeting, they confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House complex.

I invite the Minister to make his opening statement.