Before we start, I want to mention the retirement of Tony Maher as an usher. He had a full career in An Garda Síochána and joined the Houses of the Oireachtas as an usher 13 years ago. Tony's charm and helpful personality will be missed around the Houses and by all his colleagues. Tony rides into the sunset to become a full-time grandfather. We wish Tony health, happiness and a very long retirement. Anyone who knows Tony knows that he is always really helpful and a really good guy, so we all wish him very well. I now call on the Minister, Deputy Chambers, to make his opening statement under Standing Order 55. He is sharing the slot with the Minister, Deputy Heydon, and they have 35 minutes in total.

Sentiment score: 0.33

Before we proceed, I welcome Pennsylvania supreme court justice Mr. Kevin Dougherty, who is visiting Leinster House today and is in the Public Gallery.

Sentiment score: 0.88