Owing to the unavoidable absence of the Cathaoirleach and Leas-Chathaoirleach, in accordance with Standing Order 90(3) of Dáil Éireann and Standing Order 79(3) of Seanad Éireann, I call on the committee to nominate a member to perform the duties devolved to and exercise the authority conferred under Standing Orders on the Cathaoirleach for the duration of his absence.
Business of Joint Committee
Clerk to the Committee
I propose Deputy Catherine Murphy.
I am only here to ensure there is a quorum.
I propose Deputy Barry Cowen.
Clerk to the Committee
Is that agreed? Agreed.
Deputy Barry Cowen took the Chair.
I advise members that they must turn off their mobile phones while attending committee meetings. Mobile phones interfere with the sound system and we have been informed by RTE that it will not broadcast any part of the meeting where interference caused by mobile phones occurs.
Apologies have been received from the Chairman, Deputy Michael McCarthy. I propose that we go into private session to deal with a number of items.
The joint committee went into private session at 2.20 p.m. and resumed in public session at 2.40 p.m.