Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
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No apologies have been received.

You are all very welcome. I remind all those in attendance to ensure that your mobile phones are on silent or switched off.

I wish to explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses as regards references witnesses may make to other persons in their evidence. The evidence of witnesses physically present or who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected, pursuant to both the Constitution and statute, by absolute privilege. This means they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they say at the meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse this privilege, and it is my duty as Leas-Chathaoirleach to ensure that this privilege is not abused. 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.

Members and witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice 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 that makes him or her identifiable. Members are also reminded of the provisions of Standing Order 218, that the committee shall refrain from inquiring into the merits of a policy or policies of the Government or a Minister of the Government or the merits of the objectives of such policies.

The Comptroller and Auditor General, Mr. Seamus McCarthy, is a permanent witness to the committee. He is accompanied by Ms Irena Grzebieniak, deputy director of the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General.

This morning, we will engage with representatives from the Office of Public Works to examine the appropriation accounts of 2023, Vote 13, and the Report on the Accounts of the Public Services 2023 - chapter 4, adapting flood risk management to climate change impacts, and chapter 5, delivery of rapid-build housing.

We are joined by the following representatives from the Office of Public Works: Mr. John Conlon, chairman; Mr. Robert Mooney, head of planning and climate adaptation; Mr. Jim Casey, head of flood risk management; Ms Cathleen Morrison, head of estate management; Ms Rosemary Collier, head of heritage services; and Mr. Pat Fitzsimons, head of corporate services. We are also joined by Ms Ciara Morgan, principal officer, OPW Vote, Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform. You are all very welcome.

I now call the Comptroller and Auditor General, Mr. Seamus McCarthy, to make his opening statement.