Apologies have been received from Deputy Charlie McConalogue and Senators Hildegarde Naughten and Averil Power. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh will be delayed.
The broadcasting service requests that everyone turn off his or her mobile phone completely to avoid interference with the broadcasting of proceedings.
The clerk has circulated a policy briefing document on today's public business. We will now go into private session to deal with the minutes and certain other matters.