Brian Leddin (Limerick City, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The meeting today will be split into two sessions. The purpose of the first session is to have a discussion on the role of communications in acting on climate change. Our second session at 1 p.m. is with the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, to discuss a motion on the Sustainable Energy Act, which has been referred to us.

On behalf of the committee, I welcome the following witnesses from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, BAI. Ms Celene Craig is the chief executive officer of the BAI. Mr. Declan McLoughlin is senior manager of the BAI. Ms Stephanie Comey is assistant chief executive of the BAI. We also invited the Press Council of Ireland but, unfortunately and regrettably, it declined to attend today. I think I speak for members of the committee when I say we are disappointed the Press Council has not attended because we think it would have been useful to have this discussion with it as well as the BAI.

I will read out the note on privilege as usual. I remind you, our guests, of the long-standing parliamentary practice that you 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. If your statements are potentially defamatory in respect of an identifiable person or entity, I will direct you to discontinue your remarks. It is imperative you comply with any such direction. Members of the committee 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 remind Members that they are allowed to participate in the meeting only if they are physically located in the Leinster House complex. In that regard I ask that if they are joining us via Microsoft Teams, they confirm that they are on the Leinster House campus.

I go now to Ms Craig for her opening statement.