Garret Ahearn (Fine Gael)
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Members participating in the meeting remotely are required to do so from within the Leinster House complex only. Apologies have been received from Deputy Quinlivan.

In October 2023 the committee reported on artificial intelligence in the workplace.

One of the key observations of the committee was that further discussions would be needed to explore the wide-ranging impacts that AI may have. The issue of how Ireland can best position itself so as to be ready to face the challenges posted by AI and to seize the opportunities that AI presents is likely to be a major priority for all stakeholders in this area. The committee is pleased to have the opportunity to consider these matters further with the following representatives from Amazon, Microsoft and Google. I am pleased to welcome from Amazon, Dr. Sasha Rubel, head of AI policy, Amazon Web Services, AWS, and Mr. Ed Brophy, EU strategy and head of public policy, Amazon Ireland; from Microsoft, Mr. Kieran McCorry, national technology officer, Microsoft Ireland, Mr. Jeremy Rollison, head of EU policy, Microsoft Brussels, and Mr. Ciarán Conlon, deputy director of public policy, Microsoft Ireland; and from Google, Mr. Ryan Meade, government affairs and public policy manager, Google Ireland.

Before we start, I wish to explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the House with regard to references witnesses may make to another person in their evidence. The evidence provided by 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 in such a way 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 their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to 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 statements have been circulated to members. To commence our consideration of this matter, I invite Dr. Rubel to make opening remarks on behalf of Amazon.