As we have a quorum, I call the meeting to order. Apologies have been received from Senator Hildegarde Naughten. As the proceedings are being broadcast live on UPC, the broadcasting recording service has requested that members switch off telephones for the duration of the meeting.
Business of Joint Committee
I read a report indicating that other broadcasters have decided to broadcast the proceedings of the Houses. Will the other channels pick up the UPC broadcast?
In the same way as it is provided to UPC, the broadcasting service will provide the service to Sky and another company. I understand the coverage will be much more extensive from September onwards. I attended a meeting of committee chairmen last week, which heard that changes will be made to the committee rooms to improve their appearance for broadcasting purposes.
A briefing from the clerk has been sent to members. We will go into private session to discuss minutes and certain other matters.
The joint committee went into private session at 1.15 p.m. and resumed in public session at 1.35 p.m.