No apologies have been received. I advise everyone present to switch off all mobile phones, as they interfere with the sound recording system in the committee rooms. The select committee has been convened to consider Committee Stage of the Judicial Appointments Commission Bill 2017.
I welcome the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Charles Flanagan and his officials to this meeting. Before going into the detailed work of Committee Stage, I invite the Minister to make his opening remarks.