Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
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I remind members and those in the public Gallery that their mobile phones should be switched off completely for the duration of the meeting as they cause interference even in silent mode with the recording equipment in the committee rooms. The purpose of today's meeting is to consider the order referred to the select committee by Dáil Éireann on 6 May concerning the ratification by Ireland of the internal agreement concerning the 11th European Development Fund, EDF. The order of the Dáil stipulated the committee report back by 11 June 2014. Members are aware the European Development Fund is the main instrument for delivering development assistance to the African Caribbean and Pacific, ACP, group of states. The 11th EDF will cover the period from 2014 to 2020.

On behalf of the select committee I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Joe Costello, and his officials. I call on the Minister of State to make his presentation which will be followed by questions and answers.