Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome our guests online. We have two engagements today. The first is with representatives of Relatives for Justice. We have Professor Bill Rolston, chairperson; Claire Hackett, vice chairperson; Irati Oliega Aiesta, legacy caseworker; and Mark Thompson, CEO.

On behalf of the committee, I welcome the witnesses to today's meeting.

Before we begin, I must explain parliamentary practice regarding 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. However, witnesses and participants who give evidence from a location outside the parliamentary precincts are asked to note that they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as a witness giving evidence from within the precincts and may consider it appropriate to take legal advice. Witnesses are asked to note that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings should be given and should respect directions given by the chair and parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, 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.

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 call Professor Rolston to make his opening statement.