David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Today we meet the Committee on Foreign Affairs and Inter-parliamentary Co-operation of Ukraine via MS Teams, to get an update on the current situation in Ukraine. I welcome the Chair of the Committee, Mr. Oleksandr Merezhko along with the Deputy Chair, Ms Maryna Bardina, and their colleagues. I also welcome the ambassador, H.E. Ms Larysa Gerasko, ambassador of Ukraine to Ireland, in the Gallery. She is most welcome. The format of the meeting is in the usual manner. We will hear any opening statements the witnesses wish to make, followed by discussion with questions and answers with the members of the committee. I ask members to be concise in their questions to allow all members the opportunity to participate. There will be a second opportunity for members to come back in should they so desire.

Witnesses and members 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 that person in any way identifiable, or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of that person or entity. Therefore, if statements are in any way potentially defamatory in respect to any entity or person, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that any such direction be complied with.

For witnesses attending remotely outside of our Leinster House campus, there are some limitations to parliamentary privilege and as such, they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as witnesses who are physically present might. Members are also reminded that they are only allowed to participate in this meeting if they are physically located on the Leinster House complex, that is, in offices or here in the committee chamber.

I now call on Mr. Merezhko to make his opening statement.