We have a quorum. I ask Members to ensure their mobile telephones are turned off. Apologies have been received from Deputy Jackie Healy-Rae. The minutes of the meeting of 24 November have been circulated. Are they agreed? Agreed. I propose that the meeting should continue in private session to deal with housekeeping matters before our main business with the Departments. Is that agreed? Agreed.

The joint committee went into private session at 11.10 a.m. and resumed in public session at 11.15 a.m.