Michael Murphy (Tipperary South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Deputy Emer Currie. The purpose of the meeting today is to discuss an overview of the work of the Irish Aviation Authority, IAA, in particular management of Irish airspace, air traffic safety, commercial aviation, environmental impact of aviation and consumer protection. I am pleased to welcome from the IAA Mr. Declan Fitzpatrick, chief executive; and Dr. Adrian Corcoran, director of economic regulation, licensing and consumer affairs.

I will read some notes on 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 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 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 or her identifiable. I remind members of the constitutional requirement that members 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 leave the meeting. In this regard, I ask any member partaking via MS Teams that prior to making their contribution to the meeting, they confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus.

I now invite Mr. Fitzpatrick to make his opening statement.