Apologies have been received and will be noted. I remind members of the committee and those present in the Visitors' Gallery to ensure their mobile phones are switched off completely for the duration of the meeting because, even in silent mode, they cause interference with the recording equipment. I ask everyone present to respect this instruction.
The minutes of the meeting of 4 July have been circulated. Are they agreed? Agreed.
As there seems to be confusion, can we establish what is on the agenda for the meeting? The agenda, which was received as late as yesterday, suggests the main topic will be Iran and related matters which could, and I assume will, include a discussion on the situation in the Middle East, particularly Lebanon. Today we received briefing material from the Department of Foreign Affairs which we appreciate and which lists six items, all of which are important. They are support for Irish community groups in Britain, emigration issues, the London Irish Centre, a note on the treaty on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, a note on the current situation in Iran and the US-India civil nuclear agreement. Given that the material covers a range of topics, it is important to establish at the beginning what is on the agenda. Will priority be given to a discussion on the situation in Iran as arranged and is appropriate?
The agenda is a discussion with the Minister for Foreign Affairs on Iran and related issues.
I contacted the Chairman's office yesterday to request an urgent discussion on the developing situation in Lebanon and Palestine. I understand such a discussion may take place today because the Minister will address some of these issues. It is important that this committee have its say on what is a disastrous and unnecessary situation.
Committee members should allow me to introduce the Minister, who will answer their questions. They may then raise any other points they wish.
Emigration issues are mentioned in the briefing material.
As requested at the last meeting by one of the members. The material has been circulated for that reason. That is normal precedure at every meeting.
I apologise.
