Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Apologies have been received from Deputy Maurice Quinlivan. I remind members, visitors and those in the Public Gallery to please ensure their mobile telephones are switched off or in flight mode for the duration of the meeting, as they interfere with broadcasting equipment even when in silent mode.

In accordance with Dáil Standing Order 84A(4)(k)and Seanad Standing Order 71(3)(k), the Competition Act 2002 (Section 27) Order 2018 was referred to this committee by order of the Dáil on 4 October and by order of the Seanad on 9 October 2018. The Joint Committee on Business Enterprise and Innovation has been asked to send a message to both Houses no later than 18 October stating that it has completed its consideration of the order. Members have been circulated with the briefing document prepared by the Department and the Minister's opening statement. I welcome the Minister, Deputy Heather Humphreys and her officials to 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 the Minister to make her opening statement.