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

I advise members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex in order to that to participate in public meetings. I will not permit a member to participate where they are not adhering to the constitutional requirement and therefore a member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting. In this regard, I ask any member participating via Microsoft Teams to confirm prior to making their contribution to the meeting they are on the grounds of the Leinster House complex. 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 might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if a statement is potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, I will direct the member to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative they comply with any such direction. I remind all those in attendance to make sure their mobile phones are switched off or in silent mode.

The second item on our agenda is the consideration of the Supplementary Estimate for the public services 2025: Vote 42. I welcome the Minister's officials. While the committee has no role in approving the Estimates, it is an ongoing opportunity for the committee to examine departmental expenditure, make the budgetary process more transparent and to engage in a meaningful way on relevant performance issues. The Supplementary Estimate for Vote 42 - Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht was presented to the Dáil on 12 November 2025.

I call the Minister to give his brief opening remarks.