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

Our agenda today is meeting with representatives of Church in Chains. Our guests include Mr. Davood H.M., from Iran, Pastor Lesado Nathan, from Nigeria, Mr. Stanly Sam, from India and Mr. David Turner, from Ireland. They are all very welcome. We look forward to hearing from them regarding the issues and challenges being faced in parts of the world that can perhaps be considered the most conflict-ridden.

The format of our meeting is in the usual manner. We will hear an opening statement followed by a question-and-answer session with members of the committee. I ask the members to be concise in their questioning and to allow everyone an opportunity to participate. While some members are present in the room, there are a number online, including Senator Wilson and Deputies Lawless and Cronin. We might be joined by some more and they too will have an opportunity to engage with our witnesses.

I remind witnesses and members of the long-standing parliamentary practice that we should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make them identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, any statements that may be potentially defamatory with regard to any identifiable person or entity will result in a direction to discontinue the remarks. It is imperative that any such direction be complied with. I remind members that they are only allowed to participate in this meeting if they are physically located within the Leinster House complex.

I call Mr. Turner to make his opening statement.