John O'Mahony (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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The purpose of today's meeting is to engage with representatives of EirGrid on the company's recent decision to deploy a new regional option for the Grid Link project. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Mr. Fintan Slye, chief executive officer; Ms Rosemary Steen, director of external affairs; Mr. John Fitzgerald, director of grid development; and Mr. Mark Norton, network planning manager.

I draw the attention of witnesses to the fact that 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. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. They are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and they are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect 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. In addition, I advise witnesses that any submissions or opening statements they have given to the committee may be published on our website after the meeting.

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. Slye to make his opening statement.