Christopher O'Sullivan (Cork South West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The committee is meeting today with key stakeholder groups to continue its examination of the topic of the development of local and community arts. I warmly welcome from the Drama League of Ireland, Mr. Edward Hayden, chairperson; from the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland, Mr. Liam Hannaway, chairman; from the Association of Irish Festivals and Events, Mr. Colm Croffy, executive director; from the Association of Irish Musical Societies, Mr. Feargal Cavanagh, national president, and Mr. Frank Foley, national secretary; and from the Theatre Forum, Ms Anna Walsh, director, and Padraic McIntyre, venues manager.

The format of the meeting is I will invite our witnesses to deliver an opening statement limited to three minutes, to be followed by questions from members of the committee. As the witnesses are probably aware, the committee may publish opening statements on its webpage. Is that agreed? Agreed.

Before we proceed I wish to explain some limitations in relation to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses as regards references witnesses may make to other persons in their evidence. The evidence of witnesses physically present or who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected pursuant to both the Constitution and statute by absolute privilege in respect of the presentations they make to the committee. Witnesses are reminded 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 identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative they comply with any such direction.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise, or make charges against a person outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I also remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of Leinster House to participate in public meetings. I will not permit a member to attend where he or she is not adhering to that constitutional requirement. Any member who attempts to attend from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting.

All the housekeeping is done and I am nearly out of breath. I propose we proceed with the opening statements. I call Mr. Hayden.