Peter Roche (Galway East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have received apologies from Deputy Ryan O'Meara. Everyone is most welcome. I ask all who are attending remotely to mute themselves when not contributing so that we do not have any background noise or feedback. I remind all those attending to ensure their mobile phones are on silent mode or switched off. Members attending remotely are reminded of the constitutional requirements that in order to participate in public meetings members must physically be present within the confines of the Leinster House complex.

As witnesses are within the precincts of the Leinster House complex, they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the presentations they make to the committee. This means that they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they say at the meeting. However, witnesses are expected not to abuse the privilege and it is my duty as an Cathaoirleach Gníomhach to ensure that this privilege is not abused. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to any identifiable person or entity, witnesses 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 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.

On the agenda today is a discussion of the school transport scheme. I welcome from the Department of Education and Youth, Mr. Tomás Ó Ruairc, assistant secretary general, Ms Laura Leonard, acting principal officer, and Ms Sarah Heneghan, acting assistant principal officer; and from Bus Éireann, Mr. Stephen Kent, chief executive officer, and Ms Miriam Flynn, chief schools officer. I call Mr. Ó Ruairc of the Department to make his opening statement, for which he will have five minutes.