Cormac Devlin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

I thank Ms Deane for her very comprehensive overview. We appreciate that. For new members of this committee it was essential for us that we would hear from the shared island initiative, and see what is being done and understand the various elements of that very important funding mechanism.

At the outset I would like to highlight some of the points mentioned, particularly around the North-South Ministerial Council and the engagement with the Executive. All of that is very instrumental in the work from Government. From this committee's perspective, the funding that has gone into all the various different areas has not only been welcome but is also good for this committee to hear and delve into, which is what we hope to do today. With that, as per our speaking rota, Deputy Moynihan will speak first. I see that Mr. Cathal Mallaghan MP is online and I can see that his hand is up. He will be called as per the speaking rota. I do not know if Mr. Mallaghan can see us but we can see him. I wish to make him aware that there is a slight technical glitch and, hopefully, it will be resolved.

I call Deputy Moynihan, please.