Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Senators Wilson and O'Reilly. Following our meeting last week with the Ukrainian ambassador and having regard to the fact that Ukraine is our agenda item this afternoon, I am pleased to note today the first meeting of the conference on the accession of Ukraine to the EU and the first meeting of the conference on the accession of the Republic of Moldova to the EU. Both will be held in Luxembourg today, 25 June. These important meetings follow decisions by the European Council in December 2023 to open accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. We wish everybody all the best in that regard.

I acknowledge this afternoon the sad news of the passing away of former RTÉ northern correspondent Tommie Gorman, a man who, throughout his professional career, had a great interest in international affairs, including foreign affairs. I extend the condolences of this committee to his wife, Ceara, and family in Sligo on his untimely passing away shortly after his retirement and after a lifetime of service with the national broadcaster.

On our agenda today is a meeting with representatives of UCD Ukraine Trauma Project to outline the vital work they are undertaking in Ukraine and give us an idea about further developments and how this committee and the wider parliamentary organisation might be in a position to assist further. In that regard, I particularly welcome Professor Gerard Bury, Professor Christopher Fitzpatrick and Mr. Shane Leahy.

We have some students in the Gallery from Concern's SDG summer academy, a three-day event that brings together like-minded students from across Ireland who wish to take action or see action taken on the sustainable development goals. Again, this is subject matter that has been on our agenda from time to time and will continue to be, particularly as we look towards the autumn session.

The format of our meeting is that, in the usual manner, we will hear an opening statement, followed by a question-and-answer session with members of the committee. As always, I ask members to be concise in their questions to allow all members an opportunity to participate.

I remind witnesses and members of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it in any way identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of any person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that any such direction be complied with immediately.

I remind our witnesses that the committee is still using a post-Covid hybrid format in that it is possible for members to attend remotely from their offices as long as they are within the confines of the Leinster House campus. I do not see any members online at present but it is possible some may join the meeting. If they wish to ask questions or make comments or observations, I will notify our guests.

It gives me pleasure to call on Professor Bury to make his opening statement.