George Lawlor (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Deputy Barry Ward and Senators Maria Byrne and Joe O'Reilly. Everyone is very welcome.

We do not have anyone attending remotely today, but I will read the note. I ask anyone who is attending remotely to mute themselves when not contributing in order that we do not pick up any background noise or feedback. As usual, I remind those in attendance to ensure their mobile phones - I include mine in this - are on silent or switched off. Members attending remotely are reminded of their constitutional requirement that in order to participate in public meetings they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex.

As the witnesses are within the precincts of Leinster House, they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the presentation 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 this privilege is not abused. 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 any such direction.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or entity outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

On the agenda for today's meeting is an engagement with the Irish Traveller Movement to discuss the Traveller apprenticeship incentivisation programme, TAIP. Our witnesses are: Mr. Bernard Joyce, director; Ms Bridget Kelly, TAIP manager; and Mr. Pat Stokes, TAIP outreach officer. You are all very welcome indeed. I invite Ms Kelly to make the opening statement on behalf of the Irish Traveller Movement, following which we will proceed with questions and answers.