Eileen Flynn (Independent)
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Good morning everyone. I welcome Anna McBrearty, a young woman who is doing placement with me, to the meeting. We have apologies from Senators Joe O'Reilly and Ned O'Sullivan.

I remind members that they must be physically present in Leinster House in order to take part in the public meeting. I will not allow members to take part in the meeting if they are outside of Leinster House. The evidence of witnesses physically present in Leinster House is protected by absolute privilege but they should not criticise or make charges against any person by name or in such a way as makes him or her identifiable.

I propose that we publish the opening statements from Galway City Council and Dublin City Council on the Oireachtas website. I suggest that witnesses speak for five to ten minutes and we will then go to members for questions.

Very swiftly then, we will move on to traveller accommodation. I thank our witnesses for being here today. The representatives from Galway City Council and Dublin City Council are all very welcome. I invite Mr. Tony Smithers from Dublin City Council to make his opening statement.