John Paul O'Shea (Cork North-West, Fine Gael)

Apologies have been received from Deputy William Aird, who will be with us later, and Senator Noel Donovan.

I will read a note on privilege and housekeeping matters before we begin. Witnesses and members 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 would 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 all such directions that I might make.

Members attending remotely are reminded of the constitutional requirement that to participate in public meetings, members must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex. This is due to the constitutional requirement that for participation in public meetings, members must be physically present within the confines or place where the Parliament has chosen to sit. In this regard, I ask members participating via MS Teams to confirm that they are on the grounds of Leinster House if they wish to contribute to the meeting. I remind all those in attendance to make sure their mobile phones are switched off or on silent mode.

The embracing Ireland outdoor national recreation strategy was published in November 2022 and sets out the vision and series of actions to lead and guide the sustainable development and management of our outdoor recreation over five years. With that in mind, it is appropriate and opportune to review the strategy and its objectives at what is effectively the midway point. Recreation in the outdoors is something we all value and we are fortunate in Ireland to have nature and its bounty available to us. It is to be cherished and safeguarded in equal measure and, above all, made accessible to this and future generations for their well-being, health and enjoyment.

We look forward to engaging with the witnesses today in promoting the outdoors and its offerings. I welcome from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Mr. Fintan O'Brien, assistant secretary for rural and regional affairs, and Mr. J.P. Mulherin, principal officer for the investment programmes and outdoor recreation unit. I invite Mr. O'Brien to make his opening remarks.