I welcome the representatives of the National Roads Authority, Mr. Gerard Murphy, PPP manager, Mr. Fred Barry, chief executive; and Mr. Eugene O'Connor, head of project management and engineering. I draw their attention to the fact that while members of the joint committee have absolute privilege, the same privilege does not apply to witnesses who appear before the committee. Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.
I call on Mr. Barry to make his presentation. While the joint committee has discussed the submission forwarded by him yesterday, members have not had time to go through it in-depth. They feel there is not enough time for Mr. Barry to make a 25 page submission followed by questions. It is proposed that he take questions in the order they were submitted by members.
It is fitting that the joint committee should express its sympathy to the families bereaved as a result of yesterday's tragic bus accident outside Navan. I would appreciate it if the clerk would convey our sympathies to the families and communities affected and pass on our good wishes to those who were injured. It was a tragic accident in which many young lives were lost. It highlights that the entire school transport system needs to be examined in the context of the facilities provided.
I have raised this issue on a number of occasions because, unfortunately, a fatal accident involving a school bus occurred in my constituency many years ago. Deputy Connaughton also raised the issue in the context of an incident in Galway a number of years ago which, thankfully, did not result in fatalities. However, the joint committee might discuss the issue at a later date.
I ask Mr. Barry to make a short introductory presentation. We will then take Deputy Glennon's questions.