Clerk to the Committee:

Due to the unavoidable absence of the Cathaoirleach and Leas-Chathaoirleach of the committee, in accordance with Standing Orders 93 of Dáil Éireann and 79(3) of Seanad Éireann, I call for nominations for the election of one of the members of the joint committee to perform the duties devolved upon, and exercise the authority conferred upon, the Cathaoirleach by Standing Orders for the duration of that absence.

Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour)
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I propose Deputy Nash.

Clerk to the Committee:

Is that agreed? Agreed. I call on Deputy Nash to take the Chair.

Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour)
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As we have a quorum of six members including one Teachta Dála and one Seanadóir, we will commence the meeting. I wish to advise members they must turn off their mobile telephones when attending committee meetings. Active mobile telephones interfere with the sound system and RTE has informed us that it will not broadcast any part of the meeting where interference from mobile telephones occurs. Apologies have been received from Deputies Michael McCarthy, Noel Coonan and Seán Ó Fearghaíl. I propose we go into private session to deal with a number of items. Is that agreed? Agreed.

Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour)
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I seek a proposal for a nomination to the Chair.

Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour)
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Is that agreed? Agreed.