Erin McGreehan (Louth, Fianna Fail)

Apologies have been received from Deputy Maeve O'Connell and Senator Laura Harmon.

All are welcome. I ask anyone attending remotely to mute their mics 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 on 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 in the precincts of Leinster House are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the presentations they make at the committee. This means they have an absolute defence against any defamation action or anything they say at the meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse this privilege. It is my duty as Cathaoirleach to ensure 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 they comply with any such direction.

Members are 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 or her identifiable.

Apprenticeships are on the agenda for the meeting. The witnesses are: Mr. Padraig Curley, president, and Mr. John Conneely, assistant general secretary, education and research, from the Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland, ASTI; Ms Catríona Rodgers, president, and Ms Colette Twomey, vice-president, from the Institute of Guidance Counsellors; and Mr. Michael Gillespie, general secretary, and Ms Liz Farrell, assistant general secretary, from the Teachers Union of Ireland. They are all very welcome.

I call Mr. Curley to make his opening statement. He has five minutes.