As you know, Deputies and Senators, the meeting which was called for yesterday was adjourned until today at 5 o'clock because the Dáil yesterday was debating the six-monthly report on Community affairs. It was important for members to attend that debate; indeed, many of our members wished to contribute to it.
Since our last meeting one of our very distinguished members, Senator O'Callaghan, has unfortunately died. I am sure you would all wish me to convey to his wife and family our sympathy, and I shall do so.
Before we commence our agenda I should like to inform the Committee that I have received apologies for non-attendance from Deputy Gene Fitzgerald and Senators John Boland and Alexis FitzGerald.