Aidan Davitt (Fianna Fail)

I have to make a declaration as it is my first time in the Chair. In accordance with Dáil Standing Order 113(4):

I do solemnly declare that I will duly and faithfully to the best of my knowledge and ability execute the office of Leas-Chathaoirleach of the Joint Committee on European Affairs 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.

We are joined by His Excellency Mr. Lars Thuesen from Denmark, who is the Danish ambassador to Ireland. He will discuss the priorities of Denmark during its six-month Presidency of the Council of the European Union - in Ireland's sight at present - which began yesterday. I congratulate him on that. I am sure he will have lots of exciting stuff to tell us. He is accompanied by Ms Mathilde Littau Christensen, political affairs assistant with the Danish embassy in Dublin. We will be joined by two more ambassadors from Cyprus and Italy. They are not here at present but will join us at some stage, to make members aware they might see some familiar faces in the Gallery today.

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 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 such direction.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make any charges against a person outside the House, or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. There is a reference to online but that does not apply to us today.

I call the ambassador to lay out Denmark's priorities. We are delighted to welcome him.