Brian Leddin (Limerick City, Green Party)
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I have received apologies from Deputies Alan Farrell and Whitmore. The purpose of today's meeting is to have a discussion in advance of the next iteration of the climate action plan, subsequent to the Climate Change Advisory Council, CCAC, and EPA reports from earlier in the summer. On behalf of the committee, I am very happy to welcome the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, and his officials to the meeting.

Before we begin, I will read the note on privilege. I remind the witnesses of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity either 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. If witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory in respect of an identifiable person or entity, I will direct them to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Members of the committee are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary 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. I remind members that they are only allowed to participate in the meeting if they are physically located in the Leinster House complex. I ask those members who are joining us via Microsoft Teams to confirm that they are indeed on the grounds of Leinster House prior to making their contributions to the meeting.

We will go to the Minister for his opening statement.