John Lyons (Dublin North West, Labour)
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We will now discuss Startup Ireland's action plan for job creation and innovation. I welcome Mr. Eoin Costello, chief executive officer, Mr. Sean Blanchfield, Ms Fionnuala Healy, Mr. Gene Murphy and Mr. Karl Aherne from Startup Ireland. I know some of their colleagues are also in the Gallery.

Before we hear the presentation, although some of the witnesses may be familiar with it, in accordance with procedure I am required to read the following warning. It sounds scary but it is to cover everybody's back. By virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. If a witness is directed by the committee to cease giving evidence in regard to a particular matter and continues to do so, the witness is entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of the evidence. Witnesses are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and are asked to respect the parliamentary practice that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. 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 outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.
I invite Mr. Costello to make his presentation to the committee after which we will have a brief discussion and questions.