Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Ceann Comhairle) | Oireachtas source

Before we proceed, I wish to remind Members that notwithstanding the politically-contested nature of the subject matter, a number of longstanding rules of debate still apply. First and foremost, all persons are entitled to their good name, whether they be persons inside this House or outside it. If an allegation impugns the character or integrity of any person, it must be withdrawn. I also remind Members that charges against any person can only be made by substantive motion, a longstanding rule of the House. Finally, Members will be aware that complaints in relation to the subject matter of these proceedings have been made to the Standards in Public Office Commission, SIPO. It is the body assigned with responsibility, in legislation passed by this House, to examine compliance with obligations under the Electoral Act and the Ethics in Public Office Act. There is an onus on all Members of the House to be cognisant of this in the course of our proceedings this afternoon. I would be grateful to all Members on all sides of the House for their co-operation in relation to these matters.

I call on the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform to make his opening statement. Ten minutes has been allocated for the Minister's opening statement, after which each of the groups will have six minutes each, with a back and forth for questions and answers.

See this speech in context