Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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We are in public session. I remind witnesses to turn off their mobile phones or to switch them to flight mode as they interfere with the sound system and make it difficult for our parliamentary reporters to report on the meeting and also for television coverage.

I draw witnesses' attention to the fact that, by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to this committee. However, if they are directed by the Chairman to cease giving evidence in relation to a particular matter and they continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of their 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 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.

I also wish to advise that any submission or opening statements the witnesses make to the committee will be published on the committee's website after this 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 any official by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Item No. 2 is EU scrutiny, COM 2016/761, proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and the Council amending Directive 2012/27/EU on energy efficiency. It is proposed that this proposal warrants further scrutiny and it is further proposed the committee will seek the views of the relevant stakeholders. Is that agreed? Agreed.