Erin McGreehan (Louth, Fianna Fail)

Apologies have been received from Deputy Eoghan Kenny. Everyone is very welcome to the meeting. I ask those attending remotely to mute their microphones when not contributing in order that we do not pick up any background noise or feedback. As usual, I remind all those in attendance to ensure their mobile phones are in silent mode or switched off. Members attending remotely are reminded of the constitutional requirement that 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 presentations they make to the committee. This means they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they say during the meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse this privilege. It is my duty as Cathaoirleach to ensure that it 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 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 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 apprenticeships with Mr. Gerard Smith, director, Mr. Andrew Magee, engineering manager, and Ms Lynne Keery, apprenticeship training manager, from the Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence. From Quality and Qualifications Ireland, we are joined by Dr. Jim Murray, director of development,and Ms Mairéad Boland, head of quality assurance. They are very welcome.

I invite Mr. Smith to make his opening statement. He has five minutes.