Michael Murphy (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)

The purpose of today's meeting is for the joint committee to discuss unmanned aircraft systems. I am pleased to welcome on behalf of the committee from Manna Air Delivery, Mr. Bobby Healy, chief executive officer, and Mr. Kevin Houston, head of regulation, and from the University of Limerick, Dr. Gerard Dooly, co-director of the centre for robotics and intelligent systems, and Mr. Anthony Weir, researcher in field robotics.

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 that 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 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 or her 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 members 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 leave the meeting. In this regard I ask members participating via Microsoft Teams that, prior to making their contribution to the meeting, they confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus. I invite Mr. Healy, chief executive officer of Manna Air Delivery, to make his opening statement.