Erin McGreehan (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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Apologies have been received from Deputy Boyd Barrett. I welcome everyone to this morning's meeting. I ask anyone attending remotely to mute themselves when not contributing so we do not pick up any background noise or feedback. As usual, I remind all of those in attendance to ensure their mobile phones are on silent mode or switched off.

Members attending remotely are reminded of the constitutional requirement that in order to participate in public meetings, members must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex. As the witnesses are on the precincts of Leinster House, they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the presentation they make to the committee. 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 Cathaoirleach, to ensure it 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 they comply with any such direction.

Members are also reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or entity outside the Houses or an official of the Houses, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

On the agenda for today's meeting is a discussion on the content of university courses with the following witnesses. From the Irish Universities Association, IUA, we have Mr. Paul Johnston, director general. From University College Cork, UCC, we have Professor Stephen Byrne, deputy president and registrar. From Dublin City University, DCU, we are joined by Professor Blánaid White, executive dean, faculty of science and health. From Trinity College Dublin, TCD, we have Professor Vincent Wade, dean of undergraduate studies and senior lecturer. The witnesses are all very welcome to the meeting.

I call Mr. Paul Johnston to give his opening statement. He has five minutes.