Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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I remind members and witnesses to turn off mobile phones. Interference affects the sound quality. I welcome Mr. Joe O'Connor, Fórsa's lead organiser. He is accompanied by Mr. Jerry King, Ms Sarah Clarke and Mr. Shay Cody. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the issue of tax relief for trade union subscriptions. I thank the witnesses for writing to the committee and for making themselves available to us. This matter was raised by Deputy Lisa Chambers and it is something that we are anxious to hear and talk to the witnesses about today. Evidence considered today will form part of the committee's broader discussion over the coming months of options for budget 2019.

I draw the attention of witnesses to the fact that by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. They are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and they are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

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 House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I ask Mr. O'Connor to make his opening statement.