Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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On behalf of the committee, I would like to take the opportunity to welcome the European Commission representation in Ireland, Ms Barbara Nolan, who is head of the representation. She is joined by her colleague, the deputy head, Mr. Jonathan Claridge. They are very welcome and I thank them for coming in. At today's meeting we are going to discuss the state of the EU and the Commission's work programme. We very much look forward to that engagement on it.

Before we begin, we have some housekeeping matters to deal with. All 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 or her 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 and it is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Members are reminded of the long-standing 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. There are a number of people joining us remotely. I remind members that there is a constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of Leinster House complex to participate in public meetings. I cannot permit members to participate where they are not adhering to this requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside will be asked to leave the meeting. In this regard, I ask members participating via MS Teams to confirm they are within the Leinster House complex prior to making their contribution. With those official announcements done, I invite Ms Nolan to make her opening statement.