Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael)
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Cuirim fáilte roimh an Tánaiste, an Teachta Varadkar, ar son an choiste. Táimid ag dúil go mór leis an díospóireacht atá ag teacht. The Tánaiste is also Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. I also extend a welcome to his officials.

Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable, or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Members are reminded of 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 remind members of the constitutional requirements that members must be physically present within the confines of the place in which Parliament has chosen to sit, namely, Leinster House or the Convention Centre Dublin, to participate in public meetings. I will not permit a member to participate where they are not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting. In this regard, I ask any members who are participating via Teams to confirm, prior to making their contributions, that they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus.

To anyone watching this meeting online, I point out that Oireachtas Members and witnesses are accessing this meeting remotely. Only I, as Chairman, and the necessary staff essential to the running of the meeting are physically present in the committee room.

We have had an intense degree of consultation and exchanges with many groups. I know the members will be interested to hear what the Tánaiste has to say and we are looking forward to the engagement. I call on him to make his opening statement.