Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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I have received apologies from Senator Terry Leyden.

I remind members to turn off their mobile phones or switch them to flight mode as they interfere with the sound system which makes it difficult for the parliamentary reporters to report the proceedings of the meeting. They also adversely affect the television coverage.

I advise the Minister and the Minister of State that any submission or opening statements they have made or submitted to the joint committee will be published on its website after the meeting.

I propose that we examine the Vote on a selected programme basis. Members will be called on to ask questions on the subheads under the relevant programme. Programmes A, B and C have been chosen for examination. They have been chosen as they contain information that will be useful in illustrating the link between expenditure and performance. Following the examination of the programmes, members may wish to address questions to the Minister on the administrative subheads and the appropriations-in-aid. Is that agreed? Agreed.

I welcome the Minister, Deputy Denis Naughten, and the Minister of State, Deputy Seán Kyne. I note the recent change in the Minister's title. We may also have to consider changing the title of the committee. I thank the Minister and his officials for providing the briefing material for the meeting. I invite the Minister to make his opening statement.