Before going into private session I wish to extend my sincere sympathy to the family of Senator Kieran Phelan on his sudden and untimely death. He was an active member of this committee, a colleague to all of us and a dedicated public servant who will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
Death of Former Member: Expressions of Sympathy
With respect, we would all like to join in the Chairman's comments. The Senator was a most conscientious member of the committee.
He was.
We have all worked together on this committee since 2007 and share the Chairman's sentiments.
We shall reflect for a moment.
Members rose.
I propose that the committee go into private session to deal with housekeeping matters. Is that agreed? Agreed.
The joint committee went into private session at 11.45 a.m. and resumed in public session at 12.05 p.m.