Micheál Carrigy (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)

We have no apologies. I advise members of the constitutional requirement that members must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex in order to participate in meetings.

Today the select committee is required to consider the Revised Estimates in respect of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage – Vote 34; Tailte Éireann – Vote 16; and the Electoral Commission – Vote 23. I welcome the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Deputy James Browne, and his officials to the meeting. We appreciate the comprehensive briefing material provided by the Minister’s Department in respect of today’s discussion. This has been circulated to members.

Before we start, I will explain some limitations to parliamentary privileges and the practice of the Houses regarding references witnesses may make to another person in their evidence. The evidence of witnesses physically present or who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected pursuant to both the Constitution and statute by absolute privilege. 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 any such direction.

I invite the Minister, Deputy Browne, to make is opening comments on the Revised Estimates.