I remind members to ensure that their mobile phones are switched off. This is important as it causes serious problems for the broadcasting, editorial and sound staff. For the purposes of the Official Report I have been requested to identify members and members are also requested to remove their face coverings when speaking to ensure that their contributions can be recorded adequately before replacing the face coverings.
I welcome members and viewers who may be watching the proceedings on Oireachtas TV to the meeting this morning. Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that members shall not comment on, criticise, or make charges against a person outside the Houses, or an official, either by name or in such a way to make him, her or it identifiable. I remind members of the constitutional requirements that members must be physically present within confines of the place that Parliament has chosen to sit, namely, Leinster House, in order to participate in public meetings. I will not permit a member to participate where he or she is not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting.