I remind members to ensure their mobile phones are switched off as they cause interference with the broadcasting equipment. I welcome viewers who are watching this meeting live on the Oireachtas Channel, UPC and Sky networks.
Apologies have been received from Deputy Joe O'Reilly. Today, members will be briefed by the Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Deputy Dara Murphy, on the EU-UK reform negotiations which are ongoing. Progress was reported following negotiations at the European Council meeting held in December. I understand that a reform package is expected to be agreed by February and as such today's briefing by the Minister of State will be useful.
I propose that we suspend for a few minutes to allow our guests to take their seats. Is that agreed? Agreed.