Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein)
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We are now in public session. Anyone joining the meeting remotely needs to do so from within the Leinster House complex, as members are well aware. We have not received any apologies to date.

Today, we are going to look at Ireland-Canada trade relations. Ireland and Canada share many common ties and enjoy a positive relationship. Trade between Ireland and Canada has brought huge benefits to both countries and continuing to strengthen the ties between our nations is a matter of great importance. I am pleased, therefore, to have the opportunity today to consider this and other related matters further with the Minister of State with special responsibility for trade promotion, digital and company regulation, Deputy Calleary. He is joined by the following officials from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment: Mr. Stephen Curran, principal officer; and Ms Amanda Smith, assistant principal officer. I also welcome Ms Suzanne Drisdelle, senior trade commissioner with the Embassy of Canada in Ireland; Ms Julie Connell, director of the US–Canada unit in the Department of Foreign Affairs; and Mr. David Costello, deputy director of the US-Canada unit in the Department of Foreign Affairs, who are all in the Public Gallery.

Before we start, I will explain parliamentary privilege to the witnesses. There are 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 the Constitution and statute, by absolute privilege.

Witnesses are again 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 relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed by me to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Opening statements have been circulated to members. To commence our consideration of this matter, I invite the Minister of State to make his opening remarks.