Erin McGreehan (Louth, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Deputy Maeve O'Connell and Senator Mike Kennelly.

You are all very welcome today. I will first go through a bit of housekeeping. I ask those attending remotely to mute their microphones when not contributing so that we do not pick up any background noise or feedback. As usual, I remind those in attendance to ensure that their mobile phones are in silent mode or switched off. Members attending remotely are reminded of the constitutional requirement that in order to participate in public meetings they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex.

Witnesses within the precincts of Leinster House 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, they are expected not to abuse this privilege and it is my duty as Cathaoirleach to ensure that the privilege is not abused. Therefore, if the witnesses' 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 also reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or entity outside the Houses or an official of the Houses, either by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

On the agenda for today's meeting is a discussion on student accommodation with the following witnesses. From the Atlantic Technological University, ATU, Mr. Henry McGarvey, vice president for finance and corporate affairs; from Technological University Dublin, TUD, Dr. Deirdre Lillis, president; from the South East Technological University, SETU, Professor Veronica Campbell, president; from the Technological University of the Shannon - Midlands Midwest, Professor Vincent Cunnane, president; and from Munster Technological University, MTU, Professor Maggie Cusack, president.

You are all very welcome to the meeting. We have received five opening statements. I ask the witnesses to please keep to the time limit of five minutes each. I call on Mr. Garvey from ATU to give his opening statement.