Catherine Callaghan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Apologies have been received from Deputies O'Dea and O'Reilly. I remind all members to please turn off their mobile phones or at least switch them to flight mode. Before we proceed I have a number of procedural matters to deal with.

First, in accordance with Standing Orders, I wish to make the following declaration.

As Cathaoirleach, 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 Committee on Members' Interests of Dáil Éireann, 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 would like to remind members of the constitutional requirements that in order 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 in order 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 would ask any member partaking via MS Teams that prior to making their contribution to the meeting that he or she confirms 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 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 I will direct them to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Good morning members. I am delighted and honoured to have been appointed as Cathaoirleach of the Committee on Members' Interests of Dáil Éireann.

I would like to welcome all members of the committee. I look forward to working with each and every one of you in a genuine spirit of partnership and co-operation in addressing the matters that come before this committee. Do members have any comments? No. Thank you.

We will now go into private session to deal with housekeeping matters.