Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

Apologies have been received from Deputy Mark Ward and Senator Lynn Ruane. Deputy Johnny Guirke is attending in substitution for Deputy Ward. I remind members to turn off their mobile phones or at least switch them to flight mode.

The purpose of the meeting is to have an engagement with the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Deputy Jim O'Callaghan, to discuss the management and operation of the IPAS system generally, with a particular interest in processes for application decision-making, appeals and enforcement of decisions; processes for determination of locations for IPAS accommodation and suitability of accommodation; and concerns regarding profiteering within the system. I welcome the Minister and his officials to the meeting.

The format of the meeting is that I will invite him to make an opening statement to the committee on the matter. This will be followed by questions from members in the order in which they have indicated to me. In order to manage the committee's time effectively, I propose that each member will have an initial seven minutes to engage with the Minister. That is for both questions and answers, so it is important that members put their questions succinctly and the Minister be succinct in his responses. Following all members who have indicated having their initial engagement, and time permitting, we will allow for a second round of questions. Obviously, the duration of this meeting is limited, so the times must be strictly adhered to. I ask everyone to be focused in that regard.

I again welcome the Minister and invite him to deliver his opening statement.