Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Thursday, 1 February 2024

Committee on Key Issues affecting the Traveller Community

Traveller Accommodation: Discussion (Resumed)

Photo of Eileen FlynnEileen Flynn (Independent)
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I remind members that they must be physically present within Leinster House to take part in the committee meeting. I will not allow members to take part in this meeting if they are not on the grounds of Leinster House. The evidence of witnesses physically present in Leinster House is protected by absolute privilege. Witnesses should not criticise or make charges against any person by name or in such a way that will harm them or their identity. I propose that we publish the opening statements and submissions on the committee website. Is that agreed? Agreed. I suggest we invite our witnesses to speak for five to ten minutes and allow members to ask questions. Is that agreed? Agreed.

A lot of work has been done over recent months. Today's meeting is our 14th, since the committee was set up, looking at accommodation and trying to achieve small and doable goals as a committee. We have done a lot of work. We have invited in Cena, the Cork Traveller Visibility Group, the Irish Traveller Movement, National Traveller MABS and National Traveller Women's Forum. We have also invited in Pavee Point and other local authorities. Here today we have delegations from Mayo County Council and Cork City Council. They are very welcome and we look forward to the conversation.

I propose we start with Mayo County Council and then Cork City Council. I invite the witnesses from Mayo County Council to make their opening statement.