Michael Murphy (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
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No apologies have been received.

There are a few housekeeping matters to go through as follows. In accordance with Standing Orders, I wish to make the following declaration. I do solemnly declare that I will duly and faithfully and to the best of my knowledge and ability, execute the office of Cathaoirleach of the Joint Committee on Transport without fear or favour, apply the rules as laid down by the House in an impartial and fair manner, maintain order and uphold the rights and privileges of members in accordance with the Constitution and Standing Orders.

I remind members of the constitutional requirement that to participate in public meetings, members must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex. Members of the committee attending remotely must do so from within the precincts of Leinster House. This is due to the constitutional requirement that to participate in public meetings, members must be physically present within the confines of the place where Parliament has chosen to sit. In this regard, I ask members partaking via Microsoft Teams that, prior to making their contribution to the meeting, they confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable, or otherwise engage in speech that may be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if a member's statement is potentially defamatory with regard to an identifiable person or entity, he or she will be directed to discontinue his or her remarks. It is imperative that members comply with any such direction.

I wish members a good morning. They are all welcome to the first meeting of the Joint Committee on Transport of this, the Thirty-fourth Dáil. I am delighted and honoured to be appointed as Cathaoirleach of the committee. I welcome members to the committee and look forward to working with them all in a spirit of real partnership and co-operation to address the many issues and challenges we face under the remit of this committee. Do members have any comments at this stage? No.

As members are aware, a committee may choose to elect a Leas-Chathaoirleach who can perform the duties and exercise the authority of the Cathaoirleach in his or her absence. I propose requesting nominations for the position of Leas-Chathaoirleach. Members may wish to consult one another and send nominations to the clerk to the committee by close of business on 23 May. If we are all agreed, the election of the Leas-Chathaoirleach will take place at next week's meeting on 28 May. Is that agreed? Agreed.