Micheál Carrigy (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)

The Planning and Development (Exempted Development (Act of 2000)) Regulations 2025 have been referred to this committee for consideration by both Houses of the Oireachtas. These regulations relate to exempted developments in respect of slurry storage and animal housing. I am pleased that we have the opportunity to consider them in the company of the Minister of State with special responsibility for local government and planning, Deputy John Cummins. I welcome him and his officials from the Departments of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Copies of the briefing note and the regulations have been circulated to members. To commence our consideration, I call on the Minister of State, Deputy Cummins, to make his opening statement.