Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein)
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We have not received any apologies. Those members who are participating remotely need to do so from within the Leinster House complex, as they will know.

Today, we will discuss the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment's statement of strategy. It sets out the vision, values and mission of the Department for the coming years. The statement of strategy comes at a time when the Irish economy faces many challenges, including those posed by the digital and green transitions. Emerging from Brexit and the Covid-19 crisis, and with the war in Ukraine continuing to create uncertainty, the strategy offers an insight into how the Department aims to address issues such as trade and the cost of living while continuing its focus on protecting workers and consumers. I am pleased that we have the opportunity to consider this and other related matters with the following officials from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment: Mr. Declan Hughes, Secretary General; Mr. David Hegarty, assistant secretary; Mr. John Newham, assistant secretary; Ms Jean Carberry, assistant secretary; Mr. Dermot Mulligan, assistant secretary; Mr. John Maher, principal officer; and Mr. Thomas Murray, principal officer.

Before we start, I will explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses as regards references witnesses may make to another person in their evidence. The evidence of witnesses physically present or who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected, pursuant to both the Constitution and statute, by absolute privilege. 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 witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory in respect of an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

The opening statement has been circulated to members. To commence our consideration of this matter, I now invite Mr. Hughes to make opening remarks on behalf of the Department.